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ZO78: Tie-Guan-Yin Oolong 2nd Grade

Picture of ZO78: Tie-Guan-Yin Oolong 2nd Grade
Brand:Upton Tea Imports
Style:Tie Guan Yin
Caffeine:Caffeinated
Region:China
Loose/teabag:Loose
Official product page:ZO78: Tie-Guan-Yin Oolong 2nd Grade

Commercial Description:

A classic Tie-Guan-Yin, with dark-golden, rolled leaves, producing a flavorful cup with the aroma of sweet raisins complemented with robust earthy tones. The fine flavor lingers on the palate with a toasty, sweet aftertaste.

Brewing Instructions: (from Upton Tea Imports)

Leaf Quantity: 2¼ g/cup
Water Temp: 190°
Steep Time: 2½-3½ min


Ratings & Reviews:

Review by Alex Zorach on Mar. 11th, 2010
Total: 20/30 : Aroma: 7/10, Flavor: 3/5, Value: 3/5, Overall: 7/10
Aroma is subtle and complex, but on the weak side: mostly of peach, with some weaker earthy tones. Flavor is tangy, with little bitterness. The aftertaste has a mild astringency. Thin-bodied.

Following Upton's recommendations I found worked alright--for a first cup. However, I tried to brew a second cup and there wasn't really any flavor left. I settled on steeping for a single, long infusion, and using more leaf than recommended. I also was able to make two infusions using a generous quantity of leaf, brewing for a minute, and then the second cup for 5+ minutes. But still, this yielded teas that were a bit thin.

I find this tea doesn't offer the best value. It's the lowest grade of Tie Guan Yin offered by Upton, but I think more expensive teas can offer better value when you consider that they can be used for multiple infusions wit better results.
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