Clear and Fragrant Style Ti Kuan Yin from Tea Trekker
It is remarkable just how markedly different two teas of the same style can be. Yesterday’s ti kuan yin, a Taiwanese one, had a sharp nutty character and a wonderful dry aroma. Today, we’re drinking a ti kuan yin produced in Fujian Province, China, and there’s not a hint of nuttiness. But it still smells lovely, as its name suggests: Clear and Fragrant Style Ti Kuan Yin from Tea Trekker.
This is one of several ti kuan yins sold by Tea Trekker, one that they describe as being less oxidized and more fragrant than traditional ti kuan yins. Yet this is more oxidized than yesterday’s ti kuan yin. Clearly, there is quite a liberal range of possible oxidation levels for ti kuan yin teas.
Like other darker oolongs, this ti kuan yin has a nose dominated by the deep aroma of stonefruits. Think plum or peach. It reminds me a little of the jam in hot jam donuts: rich, fruity sweetness. A note of cabbage-like vegetables is fairly subdued; on the whole, this tea comes across as more fruity than vegetal.
The second infusion reveals a tangy, acidic flavour, especially as the tea cools. But already by the third, this is becoming less dominant as the tea seems to smooth out. So far, I have had four great infusions, and I’m guessing I’ll get at least another two or three.
Clear and Fragrant Style Ti Kuan Yin is available from Tea Trekker.
Shaiha wrote:
As I have recently become addicted to Oolongs, I am very much enjoying this series. I want to thank you for sharing your experiences