AmazonV tea taste tracking

TeaGschwendner Loose Leaf Rooibos Tisane ‘Winter Magic’ 1320

2012-02-04T01:50:00.002-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Winter Magic
Type: Rooibos a.k.a. Red Tisane (Tea is technically only from the camellia sinensis plant)
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: TeaGschwendner
Purchase: Here
Description: Cinnamon, cardamom and sandalwood melt into the creaminess of rooibush tea and almond for a welcome break from the winter cold.
Ingredients: Rooibush tea from Africa, cinnamon bits, almond bits, cardamom husks, flavor and cardamom seeds.

Steep Information:
Amount: 2 tsp
Water: 6oz boiling
Tool: Cast Iron Teapot with Mesh basket strainer
Steep Time: a little over 5 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: cinnamon, wood
Steeped Tea Smell: cinnamon, cardamom, wood
Flavor: rooibos woody, cinnamon, closes with cardamom kick
Body: Full
Aftertaste: cardamom, hints of wood
Liquor: dark opaque red-brown

Really have no feelings good or bad, it just seemed average.

Rating: 2/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I received this product as a gift. All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Teas Etc Loose Leaf Oolong Tea 'Green Dragon'

2012-02-04T01:02:00.003-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Green Dragon
Type: Oolong Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: Teas Etc
Purchase: Here
Description: Smooth and aromatic, this Chinese oolong is considered a “green" oolong or Pouchong tea because it is less oxidized (about 20%).

The dried, almost pellet like green leaves begin to unfurl revealing an exquisite, pale yellow liquor with a natural floral note and crisp finish.
Ingredients: oolong tea
Origin: China

Steep Information:
Amount: 6.3g
Water: 750ml 195F
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: a little over 3 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: sweet, floral, vegetal
Steeped Tea Smell: floral, sweet, vegetal
Flavor: smooth, silky, sweet
Body: Medium
Aftertaste: vegetal
Liquor: translucent honey yellow-brown

enjoyable, comforting

Resteep:
Not as smooth or sweet

I decided to have a bit of fun, I made some plain oatmeal (you know the kind you never want to eat in the variety pack) with the tea, and mixed in a bit of cranberry and almond. It was good, The tea was hidden by the other flavors and next time perhaps a fuller tea would show more.

Rating: 3/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I received this product for free in return for writing a review.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Zhi Tea Loose Leaf Oolong Tea 'Ginger Peach Oolong'

2012-01-20T15:40:00.004-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Ginger Peach Oolong
Type: Oolong Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: Zhi Tea
Purchase: Here
Description: Zhi House Blend Organic Ginger Peach Oolong is as exotic and luxurious as it sounds.

Hand-blended by our master craftswoman, Ginger Peach Oolong is designed to appeal to all your senses. Our top quality organic Shui Xian Oolong, organic ginger root, and organic juicy peach pieces combine to create a superbly refreshing, aromatic, and robust flavor experience.

The ginger gives a hint of bright spiciness while the peach adds a touch of sweetness and softness. Ginger Peach Oolong is an outstanding drink, if we may say so ourselves, that also produces a jaw-dropping iced tea. Invite your friends, they'll love you for it.

This tea holds up fantastically to multiple steepings!

A little more about our blending base for Organic Ginger Peach Oolong. We love the full flavor of the Shui Xian (water sprite), a 70% oxidized oolong leaf. This Ginger Peach has the pronounced robustness of our Wu Yi rock tea, but is a little less intense which provides a gentle base for the ginger and peach to shine through.

A great Shui Xian should support multiple steepings and have a nice, round body with a long smooth finish. You'll note that Ginger Peach Oolong has all these qualities with a distinct floral character that comes through as well. Ginger Peach is like a fine wine, the flavors are robust yet refreshingly fruity at the same time. Ginger Peach is the best thing for ginger lovers and the peach is something to remind you of long hot summer days.

Steep Information:
Tool: Teapot with Mesh basket strainer
Served: Hot

I ordered a 2 person pot, the leaves were brought out with pot, and more hot water was provided.

Tasting Notes:
Steeped Tea Smell: toasty, floral, light peach
Flavor: roasty, nutty
Body: Medium
Aftertaste: floral, slight perfume, hints of ginger
Liquor: translucent brown-orange

The peach comes through as a slight sweet flavor.
The ginger is a back of the tongue tang after each sip.
The tea is enjoyable, but not extraordinary.

Resteep:
Just as good

Rating: 2/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I purchased this product. All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Zhi Tea Store Review

2012-01-20T15:01:00.002-05:00

I visited Zhi Tea 12-11-11 @ 3:16pm
Website: http://zhitea.com/
Address: 4607 Bolm Rd., Austin, TX 78702

It was a very sharp turn to get to the right street, I passed it once and ended up having to circle back to it. There was limited parking, but the place was not very full. By the end of my visit there were 4 other patrons, 3 of which stayed with for here drinks.

One woman, the blender, was taking care of the front of the store. She was very knowledgeable and helpful with telling me about the teas and helping me select one to have.

The walls were covered with shelves of tea, and plenty of sampler sizes.

There were 4 tables, and 1 couch corner.

Average experience for a tea shop, but cozy and nice. I will gladly go back to visit next time I am in Austin.

thepuriTea Loose Leaf Black Tea 'hong jing luo'

2012-01-20T13:13:00.004-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: hong jing luo
Type: Black Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: thepuriTea
Purchase: Here
Description: Fans of Golden Yunnan will love our similarly rich, sweet Hong Jing Luo black tea (also known as Golden Bi Lou). The name Hong Jing Luo roughly translates to “golden, downy feathers;” it was chosen because the tea’s golden leaves and buds are loosely rolled into small coils that are shaped like tiny, delicate feathers. Its aroma, flavor and aftertaste are all incredibly rich and sweet – anticipate notes of raisins, sweet potato, cocoa, brown sugar, malt, roasted pumpkin, dry wood, tobacco and dark brandy. A balancing astringency makes this black tea ideal for pairing with breakfast foods, pumpkin pie or chocolate. Start your day with a cup of Hong Jing Luo, with or without milk, brown sugar and a chocolate croissant.

Steep Information:
Amount: 7g
Water: 750ml 195°F
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: 2 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: light toasty, not strong
Steeped Tea Smell: sweet, toasty
Flavor: smooth, sweet, slightly toasty
Body: Medium
Aftertaste: slight astringent after
Liquor: translucent light orange brown

lovely black tea

Re-Steep Information:
Water: 750ml 195°F
Steep Time: 3 minutes
Served: Hot

stronger brew, but same taste

Placed leave in fridge over night

Re-Steep Information:
Water: 750ml 195°F
Steep Time: 3 minutes
Served: Hot

lighter brew, but still good

Placed leave in fridge over night (again)

Re-Steep Information:
Water: 750ml 195°F
Steep Time: 4 minutes
Served: Hot

lighter, sweeter but still good

It kept on going, even after suffering through time in the fridge (repeatedly)I decided to stop as it got very light and I wasn’t sure it could take another steep.

Rating: 3/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I purchased this product. All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

2012-01-13T06:52:00.002-05:00

@milesahunter "@amazonv how to find great quality gyokuro green tea in the us"

Short answer: Online

Here are some companies whose quality of green tea I trust, I am not a gyokuro aficionado so I can speak to that specifically. Alphabetical order:

Arbor Teas

Chicago Tea Garden

ITO EN

Teaflection

Teas Etc

Whose teas I trust, but can't speak to green, again alphabetical:

Golden Moon Tea

Lupicia

Harney & Sons

TG

Upton Tea Imports

The Path of Tea

Steaz Ready To Drink - Can White Tea 'lime pomegranate'

2012-01-04T07:39:00.005-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: lime pomegranate
Type: White Tea
Packaging: Ready To Drink - Can
Company: steaz
Purchase: Here
Description: In China’s northern Fujian province, a rare, delicate white tea is harvested during a few select weeks every year. Regarded as the champagne of teas, it was once reserved only for royalty. Today, it is revered for its many health benefits and pure, smooth taste. We brew this tea with the finest, organic ingredients – including the perfect blend of lime and pomegranate – for a healthy and delicious refreshment. And because our farms are Fair Trade Certified™, we ensure equal pay, better health care, and educational opportunities for our farmers – so they can reach new heights as well. Be healthy, happy & joyous.
Ingredients: Filtered Water, Organic Evaporated Cane Juice Natural Flavors, Organic Lemon Juice, Organic White Tea And Organic Green Tea.

Steep Information:
Served: Cold 16oz

Tasting Notes:
Steeped Tea Smell: lime, pomegranate
Flavor: sweet, lime, vegetal
Body: Light
Aftertaste: pomegranate

Really good iced tea with flavor (as opposed to fruit juice with some tea in it)

I would buy it again!

It is nice to find quality ready to drink teas.

Rating: 3/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I purchased this product. All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Teavivre Loose Leaf Black Tea 'Bailin Gongfu Black Tea'

2012-01-04T07:14:00.004-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Bailin Gongfu Black Tea
Type: Black Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: Teavivre
Purchase: Here
Ingredients: Pure tea buds and new leaves
Origin: Fuding, Fujian, China

Steep Information:
Amount: 2 tsp
Water: 12 ounces hot tap water
Tool: kati loose tea system (my Review here.)
Steep Time: 2 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: sweet, roasty, delicious
Steeped Tea Smell: sweet, roasty, delicious
Flavor: sweet bakey
Body: Medium
Aftertaste: toasty
Liquor: translucent dark brown

Delicious, from the smell you knew it would be a smooth toasty black. It has its own sweetness, and just enough toast to be soothing but not an astringent black.

Resteep: 2 minutes, 12 ounces hot tap water
Lighter body, but still delicious

This tea puts up with poor preparation (at work) and has been a once a week treat on my first day of work. The smooth mouthfeel and gentle toasted sweetness wake you up gently and not with the vicious shake sometimes given by an assam.

Solid performer, I have been drinking this at work and it has been hard to mess up, and consistently delicious without being jarring. This is not a kick you awake tea but a tea to perk you up with friendly soothing sips.

Rating: 4/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I received this product for free in return for writing a review.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Teas Etc Loose Leaf Oolong Tea 'Traditional Ti Kuan Yin'

2011-12-31T03:16:00.002-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Traditional Ti Kuan Yin
Type: Oolong Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: Teas Etc
Purchase: Here
Description: This medium bodied Chinese oolong has undertones of dried fruits and a sweet golden finish.

We call it Traditional Ti Kuan Yin because of the longer oxidation which was traditionally the way the tea was created in China. More recently Chinese Ti Kuan Yin has been fashioned after the greener, less oxidized oolongs of Taiwan and unfortunately this more traditional processing is overlooked.

We like both the greener and more golden darker oxidized oolongs, each for their own unique character. One is not better than the other, just distinctly different.
Ingredients: Chinese oolong tea
Origin of Traditional Ti Kuan Yin: Fujian, China

Steep Information:
Amount: 5.6g
Water: 750ml 175°F
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: 3 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: toasty, then vegetal
Steeped Tea Smell: roasty, light vegetal
Flavor: smooth, sweet, a little vegetal
Body: Medium
Aftertaste: toasty
Liquor: translucent brown-green

Other Names: Iron Goddess of Mercy, Ti Kuan Yin, Ti Kwan Yin, Tie Guan Yin, Monkey Picked Oolong

A smooth and sweet Ti Kuan Yin, I even had a leftover cup from the refrigerator and it was good. Not all Ti Kuan Yin ice well.

This was smooth, but not as silky a mouth feel as some very nice Ti Kuan Yin I have had. It is on par with the one from Teavivre. The better Ti Kuan Yin I have had was from Chicago Tea Garden. This would do far be my second favorite.

Resteep Information: 3 min
same as first

Resteep Information: 3:30 min
lighter than first

I gave up on the leaves so I could sleep. This is one of those darling teas you really get your money worth, and it keeps on ticking, just add a bit more time and voila! If you drink a lot of tea start your day off with this and it will keep going all day for you.

My apologies for not getting pictures of resteeps and spent leaves.

Rating: 3/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I received this product for free in return for writing a review.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Teas Etc Loose Leaf White Tea 'Coconut White'

2011-12-31T03:02:00.003-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Coconut White
Type: White Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company:
Ingredients: white tea, coconut shred, flavor, natural essential oil

Steep Information:
Amount: 2.9g
Water: 500ml 185°F
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: 3 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: strong, sweet, young coconut and something else...fruity
Steeped Tea Smell: faint, sweet young coconut
Flavor: sweet vegetal tea, hints of fresh coconut meat
Body: Light
Aftertaste: sweet coconut
Liquor: translucent yellow-green

I seem to have my hands on a tea that is not yet for sale. And to those of you who enjoy flavored tea, and coconut, let me take the opportunity to say, envy me ;)

This white tea is the strong smell of a sweet young coconut, like you'd eat fresh, not the shredded stuff you'd put in candies.

In the sip the coconut flavor plays a definite second fiddle / second half of sip to the smooth white tea. The vegetal flavor is delicate and enjoyable (as opposed to vegetal green or bitter over brewed).

This is one of the teas with a silky, buttery mouthfeel. I adore those.

Being a coconut fan I would not mind if the flavor was a touch stronger, but that would risk overpowering the tea, which is smooth and refreshing.

I do think this might be nice iced.

Post-Steep Additives: pinch of German rock sugar
As with most flavored teas this bumps the flavor up so you get a coconut meat kind of taste at the start of the sip, and more of the tea in the middle. The end is still a light sweet coconut flavor.

Resteep: 330
just as good as #1, a slight stronger, 3:00might have done

Rating: 3/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I received this product for free in return for writing a review.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Teas Etc Loose Leaf Rooibos Tisane 'Coconut Custard'

2011-12-31T02:55:00.003-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Coconut Custard
Type: Rooibos Tisane (Tea is technically only from the camellia sinensis plant)
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company:
Purchase: Here
Description: Think palm trees and island breezes.
The rich coconut flavor mingling with the lovely taste of red rooibos is tropical and tasty.

Creamy sweet flavor and a lovely caramel finish completes the experience. Naturally caffeine free, this addictive and delicious no-calorie treat is not to be missed.
Ingredients: South African Rooibos, shredded coconut and flavor

Steep Information:
Amount: 2 tsp
Water: 500ml 212°F
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: 5 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: alcoholic coconut (think pina colada)
Steeped Tea Smell: coconut cream, sweet, then a hint of rooibos
Flavor: rooibos, hints of coconut, followed by a creamy coconut flavor
Body: Full
Aftertaste: wood
Liquor: cloudy reddish-brown

This was a new blend. It was not as creamy as the older batches, I think it needs more of a cream and vanilla kick.

As far as a coconut rooibos, delicious.

Rating: 3/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I received this product for free in return for writing a review.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

52Teas Loose Leaf Hojicha Tea 'Coconut-Banana Cream Pie Hōjicha'

2011-12-31T02:39:00.004-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Coconut-Banana Cream Pie Hōjicha
Type: Hojicha Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: 52Teas
Purchase: Here
Description: Here’s a toasted green Hōjicha (pronunciation) blended with freeze-dried bananas, our honking big coconut flakes and natural flavors. This is a truly delicious treat you are NOT going to want to miss out on.
Ingredients: Hojicha, freeze-dried bananas, coconut, natural flavors

Steep Information:
Amount: 2tsp
Water: 500ml 175°F
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: 2 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: coconut, runts banana
Steeped Tea Smell: vegetal, barky, roasty
Flavor: coconut, roasty, vegetal, hints of runts banana
Body: Full
Aftertaste: astringent, roasty
Liquor: translucent dark brown-red

meh...I wanted more banana and coconut, it's hints of favor in a roasty vegetal brew.

Post-Steep Additives: sugar
brings out the coconut flavor

It's an OK cup, but I really haven't been fond of any hojicha teas.

Rating: 2/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I purchased this product.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Teas Etc Loose Leaf Oolong Tea 'Cinnamon Apple'

2011-12-13T14:04:00.002-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Cinnamon Apple
Type: Oolong Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: Teas Etc
Purchase: Here
Description: A sumptuous blend of Formosa oolong, sweet cinnamon and juicy apple.

Chunks of green apple swirled with sweet cinnamon pieces and whole leaf, high quality Formosa oolong makes this as nice to look at as to drink.

Aromatic and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients: oolong tea, apple pieces, cinnamon, flavor

Steep Information:
Amount: 2+ tsp
Water: 500ml 195°F
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: 3 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: strong cinnamon apple, minds me of a nice mulled apple cider, hints of roasty tea
Steeped Tea Smell: cinnamon black tea, hint of sweet apple if you sniff hard
Flavor: sweet black tea, spice notes and a subtle sweetness
Body: full
Aftertaste: cinnamon, apple
Liquor: translucent dark reddish brown

It's a smooth and lovely tea. It doesn't call to me in such a way it's going to be an addiction but I am enjoying this and hope it gives me another couple steeps. I should warn you I am suffering from a head cold so scents and flavors may be muted.

Resteep: 500ml 195°F 3 minutes
resteep weaker, but not bad, perhaps adding 30 seconds would have done better?

A warm, comforting, fall feeling cup of tea.

Rating: 3/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I received this product for free in return for writing a review.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Bazza Ready To Drink Bottled Green Tea ‘Coconut Colada’

2011-12-13T13:51:00.004-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Coconut Colada
Type: Green Tea
Packaging: Ready To Drink Bottled
Company: Bazza
Purchase: Local grocery store
Ingredients: Premium brewed organic green tea using filtered water, organic evaporated cane juice, organic agave syrup, natural coconut flavor, natural passionfruit flavor, natural pineapple flavor, natural flavors, asorbic acid, natural caffeine, malic acid, d-ribose, maqui berry extract, organic yerba mate

Served: Cold

Tasting Notes:
Steeped Tea Smell: sour, green tea, faint coconut
Flavor: Sweet (passionfruit?), bitter, pineapple, coconut
Body: Medium
Aftertaste: Sweet, then bitter
Liquor: Translucent green

If I had to guess it’s the yerba mate I don’t like

Rating: 1/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I purchased this product. All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

52Teas Loose Leaf White Tea ‘Cucumber Strawberry Bai Mu Dan’

2011-12-13T13:39:00.003-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Cucumber Strawberry Bai Mu Dan
Type: White Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: 52Teas
Purchase: Here
Description: Now, as for this week’s tea of the week: Here is a truly spectacular blend of our premium bai mu dan white tea, freeze-dried strawberries, and natural cucumber and strawberry flavors. If you are not refreshed by a cuppa this, I just don’t know what to tell you.
Ingredients: Bai mu dan, freeze-dried strawberries, natural flavors

Steep Information:
Amount: 2 tsp
Water: 500ml 185°F
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: 2 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: cucumber, vegetal, hint of perfumy strawberry
Steeped Tea Smell: cucumber, vegetal, sweet, hint berry if you try
Flavor: crisp cool (but its hot!?!) Cucumber, then a hint of sweetness that might be strawberry
Body: Light
Aftertaste: vegetal
Liquor: translucent honey yellow brown

Post-Steep Additives: German rock sugar
not an improvement

Resteep: 500ml 185°F 2 minutes
more vegetal, and cucumber no berry, slight bitter tang

Rating: 2/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I purchased this product.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

52Teas Loose Leaf Green Tea 'Strawberry Pancake'

2011-12-13T13:28:00.003-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Strawberry Pancake Green Tea
Type: Green Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: 52Teas
Purchase: Here
Description: What’s better than our Pancake Breakfast black tea? Maybe this Strawberry Pancake green tea with our sweet, buttery Chinese sencha and freeze-dried strawberries. With just a touch of maple syrup flavor (without the calories of actual maple syrup!) this is a tea you can really sink your teeth into.
Ingredients: Premium green tea, freeze-dried strawberries, natural flavors

Steep Information:
Amount: 2 heaping tsp
Water: 500ml 175°F
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: 2 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: strawberries, vegetal
Steeped Tea Smell: strawberries and bread
Flavor: sweet strawberry, vegetal
Body: Medium
Aftertaste: bread, astringent
Liquor: translucent yellow-green

Delicious sweet green tea, slightly gritty mouthfeel. The pancake seems to be in the end / after the sip with the sweet strawberry upfront, and a strong vegetal flavor in the middle.

Rating: 3/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I purchased this product. All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Kusmi Teabag Black Tea 'Earl Grey Smoky'

2011-12-01T02:18:00.004-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Earl Grey Smoky
Type: Black Tea
Packaging: Teabag
Company: Kusmi
Purchase: Here
Description: Smoky black tea from China flavoured with bergamot.

Earl Grey is a great classic among teas, chosen by the Royal Family of British Monarchy for more than 200 years.

Appreciated for its refreshing and toning notes, it is one of the most drunk teas in the world.

Kusmi has made a smoky version that goes very well with a pastry.

Steep Information:
Amount: 1 teabag
Water: 12 ounces boiling water
Steep Time: a little over 2 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: lapsang souchong (campfire smoke)
Steeped Tea Smell: sweet, lapsang souchong (campfire smoke), bake-y, citrus
Flavor: smokey, bakey, citrus, astringent back tea
Body: Medium
Aftertaste: astringent
Liquor: translucent dark brown

I am not a huge smoke-y fan, but I do love how this combines earl grey into the smoked flavor.

I love the quality of packaging on Kusmi products.

Rating: 2/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I purchased this product.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Premium Steap Loose Leaf White Tea 'Organic Mango/Pear'

2011-12-01T01:52:00.004-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Organic Mango/Pear
Type: White Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: Premium Steap
Purchase: Here
Description: Our newest addition to our flavored whites. Fantastic tea with robust aroma of mango & pear. Delightful combination that is well balanced. Great hot or wonderful iced!

Steep Information:
Amount: 2-3 tsp
Water: 185°F
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: 2 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: Mango, vegetal
Steeped Tea Smell: Vegetal, hint of pear
Flavor: vegetal, a little bitter
Body: Light
Aftertaste: sweet
Liquor: translucent brown-green

I made this while visiting my mom, she has a lovely tea collection and an area just for tea!

I think it needs less time or lower temp...not bad, not great

Rating: 2/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I received this product for free. All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

two leaves and a bud Teabag Green Tea 'Tamayokucha'

2011-12-01T01:39:00.004-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Tamayokucha
Type: Green Tea
Packaging: Teabag
Company: two leaves and a bud
Purchase: Here
Description: There's a reason this is our best selling green tea - it has a sweet, light flavor you want in a cuppa' green tea, without being bitter. How do we do it? These whole tea leaves are gently steamed as they dry. Tamayokucha has a beautiful green hue you'll enjoy seeing in your cup as much as savoring on your tongue.
Ingredients: Green tea* (*organic)

Steep Information:
Amount: 1 teabag
Water: hot spigot water, 6-8oz
Steep Time: a little over 5 minutes (http://steep.it)
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: sweet, herb-like
Steeped Tea Smell: grassy
Flavor: grassy
Body: Full
Aftertaste: bitter
Liquor: translucent dark yellow

too hot water? too long? anyway, grassy

Thank you TeaEqualsBliss!

Rating: 2/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I received this product as a gift. All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Teavivre Loose Leaf Oolong Tea 'Tie Guan Yin' 'Iron Goddess'

2011-12-01T01:23:00.006-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Organic Tie Guan Yin “Iron Goddess”
Type: Oolong Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: Teavivre
Purchase: Here
Description: The absolute highest quality Organic Oolong tea (Wu Long tea)

Grown and produced near Zhangzhou in Fujian province
Hand made into small, rolled up, jade colored leaves
Pale yellow-green colored tea when brewed
Delightfully fresh floral taste and aroma

Tie Guan Yin tea is a type of Oolong tea, and is – deservedly – one of the most revered and sought after type tea in China. Sometimes also written as Ti Kuan Yin or Iron Goddess Oolong Tea. With a delightfully fresh floral taste, TeaVivre's organic Tie Guan Yin tea is a completely organic product, grown high in the mountains of Fujian. Apart from its amazing taste, this tea also has great health benefits, being high in amino acids, vitamins and antioxidants.

Steep Information:
Amount: 5g
Water: 750ml 195°F
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: 2 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: fresh, vegetal
Steeped Tea Smell: vegtal, light, floral
Flavor: smooth (but not silky) vegetal, sweet
Body: Light
Aftertaste: nutty?
Liquor: translucent yellow-green

Resteep: 195°F 2 min
same quality, slightly darker, odd stronger on steep two, i guess the leaves being open made a difference

Resteep: 195°F 2 min
same quality as the second

Resteep: 195°F 2 min
same quality, touch weaker
refrigerated - BLEH not good cold

At this point I gave up
The leaves could have probably done another cup

Not the best I've had but a good iron goddess, slight nuttiness, smooth vegetal, just keep it hot.

Rating: 3/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I received this product for free in return for writing a review.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Yeo's can of Herbal Tisane 'Chrysanthemum Tea Drink'

2011-11-27T08:18:00.004-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Chrysanthemum Tea Drink
Type: Herbal Tisane (Tea is technically only from the camellia sinensis plant)
Packaging: Can
Company: Yeo's

Steep Information:
Served: Cold

Tasting Notes:
Steeped Tea Smell: Chrysanthemum
Flavor: strong cane sugar, Chrysanthemum, sugar
Body: Medium
Aftertaste: cane sugar

It is hard to describe, if you have never had chrysanthemum
I would have liked a bit less sugar, but was happy it was real sugar

Rating: 2/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I purchased this product.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

Alice’s Tea Cup Chapter II NYC

2011-11-27T07:56:00.005-05:00

Alice’s Tea Cup Chapter II NYC

156 East 64th Street, New York, NY 10065-7411 (Alice’s Tea Cup Chapter II)

http://www.alicesteacup.com/

After shopping at Kusmi I headed down to Alice’s for lunch. The reviews on Steepster left me a little wary but friends on Facebook had recommended I visit it next time I was in town.

I did need to look around a bit to find it as it was around the corner and the entrance was set down below the sidewalk.

Once I found it I headed in and asked for a table for one. The hostess was pleasant and happy. I did feel a little guilty coming in at peak time alone.

I was seated on the level below sidewalk next to the kitchen; there was definitely a second floor that plates were being brought up to.

The restaurant was skinny and long. The décor was mismatched china and framed prints of pictures of various Alice films, and artist pictures and painting inspired by the same.

There were little notes around (think eat me and drink me) like on the dessert case (come closer, come closer).

They did pull off the wonderland tea party, grandmomther’s parlor theme well.

The tables were wooden with wooden chairs; the table I was on was actually an old converted sewing desk with footpedal.

The staff seemed to have droopy too large and mismatched attire as a uniform (which makes sense) that added to the theme.

The tea menu was very large and descriptive – and sorted by type. I wished I were not alone and could order more than one tea to share and try with someone. The food selection was also diverse and tea themed (scones and such).

The wait staff didn’t seem happy with me; I guess I was taking up space at a four person table for only one person. I felt a little bad but wished they didn’t seem so grumpy about it.

I ordered Alice’s Tea (house blend and apparently a favorite).
The tea I received in a whole, not small, teapot with an interesting drip catcher sponge attached. It was served abruptly with my cup only half poured and sloshed about. Was this thematic to the mad hatter’s tea party or just an angry waitress that she got the one patron table?

The tea itself was a translucent orange brown color. There was not a strong aroma to the brewed tea. The tea was slightly astringent, so I added sugar to the first cup, but as I kept refilling it I didn’t bother as it was so slight. The tea was a smooth, medium bodied black with citrus notes. I couldn’t taste the green tea they blended into the black. It was a little floral.

For lunch I ordered the cumin carrot sandwich. It was delicious and filling and presented well.

I tried not to be a burden and to eat and drink in a not dawdling way, but I could not resist the cookie plate at the end.

There were chocolate peanut cookies; butterscotch chip cookies, crasin macadamia cookies and what I believe were shortbread.

Overall good food, not bad tea, and a grumpy wait staff.

Tea Forte Loose Leaf Black Tea 'hazelnut truffle'

2011-11-27T07:31:00.003-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: hazelnut truffle
Type: Black Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: Tea Forte
Purchase: Here
Description: A rich black tea with luscious Belgian chocolate, rosebuds, cacao and roasted coconut flakes. Enriched with notes of toasted Hazelnuts.
Ingredients: black tea, organic cacao shells, roasted coconut flakes, rose buds, chocolate chips, (sugar, cacao powder, soy lecithin), rose petals, natural hazelnut flavor, other natural flavors, contains soy

Steep Information:
Amount: 3 tsp
Water: boiling, 2 mugs
Tool: my grandmother's Bee House Ceramic Round Teapot (like this one)
Steep Time: a little over 3 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: Strong hazelnut, hints of dark chocolate
Steeped Tea Smell: hazelnut
Flavor: black tea, hints of chocolate and hazelnut
Body: Medium
Aftertaste: astringent
Liquor: translucent dark brown

Rating: 3/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I purchased this product.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.

The Art of Tea Loose Leaf Black Tea Q2 #1

2011-11-23T04:24:00.006-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Q2 #1
Type: Black Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: Art of Tea
Ingredients: Organic Black Tea, Tulsi, Natural Flavor
Caffeine Content: Medium Bold
Steeping Time: 3-5 Minutes
Water Temperature: 206 Degrees

Steep Information:
Amount: 2 tsp
Water: 500ml 205°F filtered water
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: 3 minutes
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: black currant and berries
Steeped Tea Smell: fruity, herbs, black tea
Flavor: black tea followed by a sour herb and light fruit
Body: Medium
Aftertaste: sour herb
Liquor: translucent dark red-orange-brown

Steep Information:
Amount: 3 tsp
Water: 3 8 oz cups filtered water
Tool: glass teapot, in fridge, overnight
Steep Time: midnight-7 am
Served: Cold

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: black currant and berries
Steeped Tea Smell: fruity, black tea
Flavor: black tea followed by light fruit, sour herb
Body: Medium
Aftertaste: sour herb
Liquor: translucent dark red-orange-brown

The cold brew was smoother, but the sour herb (almost basil) after taste was too much, and so I do not like this tea.

Rating: 1/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

HOT

COLD

Teas Etc Loose Leaf White Tea 'Bai Hao Silver Needle'

2011-11-21T08:22:00.004-05:00

Tea Information:
Tea: Bai Hao Silver Needle Organic
Type: White Tea
Packaging: Loose Leaf
Company: Teas Etc
Purchase: Here
Description: This exceptional 100% organic spring silver needle tea is fresh from the garden in Fujian Provence.

Regarded by many as the highest quality white tea this year's harvest is sure to please.
Ingredients: organic silver needle (yin zhen) white tea

Steep Information:
Amount: 5.8g
Water: 750ml 185°F
Tool: Breville One-Touch Tea Maker BTM800XL
Steep Time: 3 minutes 30 seconds
Served: Hot

Tasting Notes:
Dry Leaf Smell: vegetal
Steeped Tea Smell: vegetal
Flavor: vegetal
Body: Light
Aftertaste: floral
Liquor: translucent green-brown

Too light to taste at 3:30, so I tossed the leaves back in for another 1:00.

Too vegetal without anything else for me, but a smooth cup of tea. Have it with some cookies or snacks.

Rating: 3/4 leaves

Leaf system:
1=Bleh! not again if it were free
2=Acceptable, if it were free or there were limited other tea options
3=I might purchase this tea from time to time, or select it while out
4=A staple in our cupboard from now on, I will purchase and keep purchasing

I received this product for free in return for writing a review.
All my reviews are as unbiased as possible, whether I buy or receive free product. I accept no other compensation other than free product.