Country of Origin: India
Leaf Appearance: sage green with lots of buds, smaller than a Chinese silver needle would be but still has some downy hairs
Ingredients: white tea
Steep time: 4 minutes
Water Temperature: 185 degrees
Preparation Method: glass teapot
Liquor: pale gold
This is one of the most complex white teas I have ever had. It was creamy, spicy and fruity with just a hint of grassiness. I was expecting a completely different experience, it tasted nothing like darjeeling and nothing like white tea. My second infusion was slightly more floral but just as delicious and nuanced. American Tea Room’s food pairing suggestions have me completely craving bread and olive oil right now. This tea is very pricy but it is a rare case where I think it is worth it. The sample size is an affordable way to give it a try. This is only the second white tea I’ve tried from India, the other being a silver needle from the Satrupa estate, but both have been stellar.