Country of Origin: China
Leaf Appearance: dark brown with golden tips scattered throughout
Water Temperature: 210 degrees
Steep Time: 3 minutes
Preparation Method: glass infuser
Liquor: reddish brown
Many tea companies have come and gone over the years, but it’s nice when a familiar face sticks around. I’ve been reviewing Little Red Cup Tea Co.’s offerings since 2012. I first discovered this brand on one of those weird flash sale sites that were super trendy at that time. They are a small, family-owned company based in Maine. Two things I love are their commitment to organic and approachable teas that are also affordable.
Leaf
Organic Yunnan Black is a black tea from the Lincang area of Yunnan Province. You might also know this type of tea as Dian Hong. The sturdy 2.25oz tin was as adorable as it is handy. The dry leaf was dark brown with a scattering of golden buds throughout. I noticed a woodsy sweet aroma when I first opened the tin. I prepared this tea in a glass infuser following Little Red Cup Tea Co.’s recommended parameters, 2g of tea in 8oz of 210℉ water for 3 minutes.
Liquor
Organic Yunnan Black brewed up a reddish brown liquor. The taste was smooth and sweet with notes of malt and maple syrup. The sweet woodiness I smelled on the dry leaf was reflected in the cup. A subtle fruity character stayed in the background, ending in a honey-sweet finish. There was hardly any astringency or bitterness. This tea is a perfect choice for people who don’t usually enjoy black tea for that reason. Subsequent infusions were more subtle but just as enjoyable.
Have you ever tried Organic Yunnan Black from Little Red Cup Tea Co.? Let me know your tasting notes in the comments below!
Organic Yunnan Black sample provided for review by Little Red Cup Tea Co.
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