Teacup - sheng Puerh tasting
I was most fortunate to receive a tasting of these fine teas this morning and was happily impressed.
The Jingmai (景迈) Cake was had the most wonderful aroma of raw honey (still on the comb), but the taste was more fruit, mild and less woody than one might expect from a pur'h -- even a sheng/raw variety.
This one DEFINITELY preferred having an audience, because when we had a second tasting later in the day, with a much larger group, I got a much better sense for its personality. I suppose it only likes to come out and say hello if there are enough people to appreciate the fullness of its complexities, so that's fine.
The Manjing (芒景) Cake was much stronger, as Brett said it was "punchier" and I observed that it was more 'shy' than its predecessor, and needed a slightly longer steep time. However, it didn't necessarily require a full audience to peek out and make introductions.
In the end, despite that yummy raw honey-comb scent, I decided to purchase the Manjing (芒景) Cake.
I'll make a point to call you in 10-20 yrs when its good and ripe, eh, Brett?
p.S. Quite off topic, but for those who haven't tried the new Yinzhen yet - DO! It's absolutely INCREDIBLE!!! It was like tasting the ghost of a Darjeeling or a 1st flush Ceylon, while still tasting like a white. Very creamy, a little toasty, but very light and smooth also. Not quite wisp, but more... otherworldly. I HIGHLY recommend it.
~Micha
The Jingmai (景迈) Cake was had the most wonderful aroma of raw honey (still on the comb), but the taste was more fruit, mild and less woody than one might expect from a pur'h -- even a sheng/raw variety.
This one DEFINITELY preferred having an audience, because when we had a second tasting later in the day, with a much larger group, I got a much better sense for its personality. I suppose it only likes to come out and say hello if there are enough people to appreciate the fullness of its complexities, so that's fine.
The Manjing (芒景) Cake was much stronger, as Brett said it was "punchier" and I observed that it was more 'shy' than its predecessor, and needed a slightly longer steep time. However, it didn't necessarily require a full audience to peek out and make introductions.
In the end, despite that yummy raw honey-comb scent, I decided to purchase the Manjing (芒景) Cake.
I'll make a point to call you in 10-20 yrs when its good and ripe, eh, Brett?
p.S. Quite off topic, but for those who haven't tried the new Yinzhen yet - DO! It's absolutely INCREDIBLE!!! It was like tasting the ghost of a Darjeeling or a 1st flush Ceylon, while still tasting like a white. Very creamy, a little toasty, but very light and smooth also. Not quite wisp, but more... otherworldly. I HIGHLY recommend it.
~Micha