Rose Petal Shanlinxi Red Oolong

Gongfu!

This is obviously a very beautiful looking tea, but the mix of fresh, aromatic rose with the notes of warm and lightly caramelized sweet rolls that the dry aroma gives off caught my attention just as much as the look of the leaf. Those fresh out of the over baked aromas are only amplified when the water hits the leaf, as are the tender, lush florals. It’s a very well-balanced cup, with a slightly heavier and cozier liquor than most other rose scented oolong teas I’ve had. Other than the flavour of sweet baked goods and pastries, it also has notes of darker honeys, a gentle and slightly woody-leaning roast, nuttiness, and even a smidge of cinnamon. More the warmth of cinnamon versus the heat. Quite a different rose oolong than I am used to, but wow, do I like it!! It would be so interesting to do a side by side with this tea and one with a greener and less oxidized base…

Tea Photos: https://www.instagram.com/p/DI64kkVSijB/?img_index=1

Song Pairing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBzrVda54g8&ab_channel=ScoobertDoobert-Topic

Soft and sweet but suffers from woody dry mouth after the swallow. It’s overall like honeyed ruby red grapefruit-rose something… with sparkling demerara sugar on top. I don’t want to say marmalade or gelatin because those imply a thick mouthfeel. It has some zest in the taste/aftertaste and the way it feels on the tongue. The rose is perhaps more fruity than floral and goes very well with this style of red oolong.

Gongfu was rather a waste; western is where it’s at and good for 2 steeps. Despite the dryness, I would purchase this again. It’s comforting and mellow yet with a citrusy character that has brightened my mood during these monthly moments.