Jun 25
Geoff’s Teaview Snapshot
 | "Scents were lightly reminiscent of pear and apricot, or some mythical fruit in ancient Ceylon texts."
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Sri Lanka is fast becoming one of my favorite go-to areas for estate-grown teas. The blacks and oolongs I've tried from the from there have been some of the best I've tried; period. Even in comparison to the undisputed king, China. Something about their high altitude techniques - of which I'm still unfamiliar - imparts a unique flavor profile, bordering on both sweet and fruity.Regardless, this has to be the strangest Ceylon offering I've come across to date . I thought I'd seen it all - needles, pearls, flowering teas, powder - but this was something new entirely. Whole green tea leaf buds rolled into long reeds or "spears", hand-twisted. That must take some skill, one I'm sure would fast lead to Carpal tunnel syndrome.
The leaves looked as their namesake addressed, like dart-sized, brown-green spears. Forboding, yet kinda cute - almost twig-like in their tightness. Better yet, they smelled fruit tart, not vegetal like most Japanese or Chinese greens.
No instructions were given on The Tea Spot site as to how to brew these lovely little death leaves. I did the next best thing and went with my usual; brewing 2 teaspoons in 16 oz. of 195F water. Word of caution: trying to measure out teaspoons of spear-shaped tea might prove cumbersome. Go with your best guess. This stuff is pretty versatile.
The leaves unfurled slowly. If you have the time, watch 'em do so. It's a trip. The infusion came out a gold-to-jade-colored goodness. Scents were lightly reminiscent of pear and apricot, or some mythical fruit in ancient Ceylon texts. Taste-wise, it was very smooth, no spinachy residual; fruity, very faint tang, with an herbal finish.
One of the better green teas I've had. Be careful not to oversteep...and never...ever try it iced. This baby needs heat.
Special Offer! For a limited time, The Tea Spot is offering deep discounts on their product line. If you're interested in purchasing this tea or others from The Tea Spot, shop now by clicking this link: The Tea Spot
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