Country of Origin: Taiwan
Leaf Appearance: dark, somewhat twisted
Ingredients: oolong tea
Steep time: 30 seconds
Water Temperature: 190 degrees
Preparation Method: porcelain gaiwan
Liquor: deep gold
Formosa means beautiful island and it is the name that was given to Taiwan by the Portuguese. Although this name is no longer used to describe the country it is often given to its teas, particularly pouchong. The leaves of this one were dark in appearance but became quite green after steeping. Floral, sweet and just slightly vegetal; this tea was everything that I would expect from a pouchong. The aroma lingered in my palate long after each sip. I don’t drink this type of tea often because they are usually too sweet for my taste. That being said, on a warm spring day it was very enjoyable. Be watchful while steeping as this tea can develop a sour edge if left to brew for too long. It might actually do better in a teapot because the brew will be less concentrated. At just $5.99 per ounce, this tea would make a great daily drinker for someone who really loves floral oolongs.
Pouchong Formosa sample provided by Infuze Tea.