Nov 28
David_A’s Teaview Snapshot
 | "I think the blend could use some other ingredient. I don’t find the combination particularly appealing though that very well could be a matter of personal preference."
|
Background:Opening up this sample releases a very strong aroma influenced by the Osmanthus. A quick look at Wikipedia shows Osmanthus consists of about 30 different species in the genus. It's a flowering plant, though those of us in the upper climes would not have the opportunity to appreciate it as it grows in warmer climates.
I don't have experience with Osmanthus so I can't provide any guidance on the taste or scent. It clearly influences the overall bouquet as it is far different than a Silver Needle tea on it's own. The scent is pungent with a citrus like quality. I am reminded of the interest and surprise that I experienced trying Schizandra for the first time not knowing what to expect.
Brewing:
I steeped the tea for 3 minutes with water that had not fully boiled.
Taste/Impressions:
The tea smells exactly like the dry leaf. The Silver Needle adds a nice base to the tea. The Osmanthus really affects the taste. I am trying to find the right descriptive qualities. It is not sweet and it doesn't have a bite like citrus. The taste is not fruity but vegetative and sour. It leaves my mouth feeling dry.
I think the blend could use some other ingredient. I don't find the combination particularly appealing though that very well could be a matter of personal preference. It seems to me the Osmanthus might be nice with other flavors. But as the only other ingredient it just doesn't work for me. It hides the overall flavor of the tea while adding a very one-dimensional quality to the taste
Conclusion:
The tea is clearly made with high quality ingredients. The overall blend does not impress me. I guess when it comes down to it I prefer white tea blends with fruit even if it is tart like Schizandra. If you prefer a tea that has a sour quality or you like Osmanthus, I bet you will enjoy this.
— To purchase Rishi Tea Osthmanthus Silver Needle, or for more specific information on ingredients or the story behind this particular blend, click here to go directly to the manufacturer's web site.
 |
David_A Teaviews.com Reviewer » Read more about this reviewer on David_A's profile page. » Find a list of recent posts by David_A. |
Recent Comments