tea (n.) \ˈtē\ 1. shrub (Camellia sinensis of the family Theaceae, the tea family) cultivated especially in China, Japan, and the East Indies 2. an aromatic beverage prepared from tea leaves by infusion with boiling water.

Monday, April 11, 2011

Formosa Amber Oolong

A nutty, toasty oolong that eliminates the grassy aftertaste I often find in other jade tie-guan-yins.  This is my personal favorite of Upton’s basic oolong collection, and trust me I've run through the oolong gauntlet.  “With an oxidation level of approximately 40%, Amber Oolong (Wu-Long) teas produce a liquor that is darker than the Jade Oolongs, listed below. The flavor is slightly more earthy and robust.”

TT55: Formosa Amber Oolong
Origin: Taiwan
Steeping Suggestions
Leaf Quantity: 2¼ g/cup
Water Temp: 190º
Steep Time: 3-5 min.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Tippy Orthodox FBOP Assam

This brew appears to be a lighter version of the full leaf sister by Upton, Tippy Orthodox GFOP Assam.  It reminds me of the sweet black tea used for bubble tea.  It  brings back memories of lunch breaks in Harvard Square.  It is described as, “A uniform, broken-leaf tea with bold character and strong, malty flavor. Floral hints in the aftertaste make this tea a great choice for breakfast and throughout the day.”  I have to agree with this one.  A solid, basic breakfast tea.

A20: Tippy Orthodox FBOP Assam
Origin: India
Steeping Suggestions
Leaf Quantity: 2¼ g/cup
Water Temp: 212° (boiling)
Steep Time: 4 min.