Tea Information:
Leaf Type: Black
Where to Buy: The Tao of Tea
Product Description:
Made as per The Tao of Tea specifications. This Twisted Leaf Assam is probably a first for this tea growing region. We provided the insight to develop an Assam tea with actual full size tea leaves that are sideways rolled and baked (The Northern Taiwanese Baozhong teas are also made in this rolling manner and known for their clear flavors). As the tea steeps, you can see the entire tea leaf unroll and open up. For those who are wary of brisk teas, this tea doesn’t have a hint of bitterness or briskness.
Learn more about this tea here.
Taster’s Review:
This is a FANTASTIC Assam.
It is incredibly rich and flavorful, but, without any tone of bitterness that is often associated with an Assam. Sure, I was careful how I brewed it, but, even with careful brewing, I can often taste a subtle hint in an Assam that isn’t quite bitter, but it sort of says “if you over steep me, I will be bitter.” This Twisted Leaf Assam does not have even that subtle hint of bitterness in the background.
It has a delicious malty tone that is coupled with a caramel-y sweetness that makes for a very irresistible taste. In the background (but not too distant background) there are notes of cocoa … not a milk chocolate-y kind of cocoa, but more of a deep, rich cocoa powder.
This is the kind of Assam that I wouldn’t mind enjoying every morning. It has that hefty kind of taste and texture I expect from an Assam – that sort of deep, freshly baked bread-y kind of taste. But what is so amazing about this cup, also, is that the flavors are so clean and delivered clearly. With some Assam teas you need to really focus to understand the complexity of the tea, but not with this one. It is a very upfront, straight-forward kind of tea that isn’t afraid to show me what its made of.
If you’re a fan of Assam tea, you should give this one a try. I’d also recommend this to anyone who has tried Assam in the past and found them to be too harsh or brassy, this one will surprise you!
Indian Tea Fair Trade Organic FOP from Starwest Botanicals
Tea Information:
Leaf Type: Black
Where to Buy: Starwest Botanicals
Company Description:
An organic black tea from the mountains of southern India. This tea has a mild, bright flavor and fresh finish.
Taster’s Review:
This tea has really surprised me. I really like it a lot.
When I first brewed this tea; I didn’t know what to expect. But I certainly wasn’t expected to be as impressed with it as I am.
It has a fairly mellow flavor – and yet there is a very pleasing underlying note of spice to it that is a little peppery and vaguely reminiscent of toasted cumin. It isn’t exactly what I’d call spicy yet it has these little hints of flavor that entice and excite the palate.
This is a very impressive black tea! I drank it hot, although it has a such refreshingly different, bright flavor that would also be very good iced – perhaps with a thin slice of lemon? I added just a drizzle of agave nectar to my cup which highlighted some of the unique notes of this tea very nicely, but it is quite good without sweetener.
However you choose to serve this tea – it is sure to be a winner! I highly recommend it!