This lightly oxidized tea falls in the category of a pouchong, between a green and an oolong. These are known for their extensive floral notes. This particular offering was grown at an elevation of 650 meters in Northern Taiwan. The large, fluffy, lightly twisted leaves present a wide range of shades of green. Their aroma is sweet, combining vanilla and floral notes.

Naivetea's website provides brewing instructions for a gong fu-style infusion. In the interest of time and practicality I used western brewing parameters instead, steeping a heaping teaspoonful of leaves in 8 ounces of water heated to 190 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes. The liquor is the pale green of springtime's tenderest shoots. The floral aroma of the cup – a cornucopia of lilac, hyacinth, jasmine and osmanthus, only enhances this association. These flowery notes also dominate the flavour profile. There is also a very pleasant honeyed vanilla undertone running throughout. The finish mingles floral tones with a slightly citrusy mineral edge. It makes for an interesting contrast with the otherwise silky smooth mouth feel but it's my least favourite element of the cup. Naivetea's website suggests that these leaves can also be brewed as an iced tea. The floral/citrus combination does indeed lend itself well to a colder, thirst-quenching cup.

Steep number 2 is also very sweet and floral, with a subtle vanilla undertone. After a 4 minute infusion there is the mildest hint of cooked and buttered asparagus. The mouth feel has become slightly silkier, no roughness appearing whatsoever. Otherwise its flavour profile is very consistent with the initial infusion's.

My third, 4 and a half minute-long infusion leads to a cup that is more buttery and mineral tasting compared to the previous steeps. There is still an underlying floral sweetness to it. Otherwise it's a very different brew, closer to a green than an oolong now. I quite like this steep, as it's got a bit more intensity to it.

I decide to see just how far I can push these leaves by brewing them a fourth time for 5 minutes. While mild, this cup is still extremely well balanced. There is no bitterness present, just a soft and buttery vegetal profile. This long, slow fade is the most graceful exit I've come across in tea form.

This is a solid, good quality offering. The same leaves allow for numerous interesting infusions, making them an especially good value. This cup doesn't have as much depth of character as other pouchongs I've sampled but it's definitely enjoyable and easy to drink. It's delicate floral notes should satisfy those who appreciate their oolongs on the greener side.

— To purchase Naivetea Wen Shan Bao Zhong, or for more specific information on ingredients or the story behind this particular tea, click here to go directly to the manufacturer's web site.

Sophie Teaviews.com Reviewer » Read more about this reviewer on Sophie's profile page. » Find a list of recent posts by Sophie.

---