The lovely Kate Gover of Lahloo kindly sent me samples of her fabulous teas. Considering that my taste buds are recently gravitating towards the savory, smokey oolongs, I didn't even question my decision to break the seal of her Amber Oolong.
According to Kate, her Amber Oolong "comes from Ming Jian Village in the finest tea growing region in Taiwan, Nantou County. A beautiful cloud and mist covered frozen peak mountain area, full of hot springs and hilltop temples. The moist hills, cool weather and soils are perfect for tea growing."
Roasted over charcoal, the oolong leaves steep to reveal a savory and smokey flavor profile. My taste buds are first met by a rich taste similar to that of dark chocolate. The deep smokey taste builds immediately after, warming my palate. The smokey and dark chocolate notes combine to create a complex flavor experience: a subtle sweet, rich/smokey with a slight (and enjoyable) tart taste of dark chocolate.
The aroma of the amber liquor is a sophisticated smokey scent. I imagine it would be similar to the scent of tweed jacket after a long evening of smoking a pipe while reading in the library by the fire.Lahloo's Amber Oolong, although perfect for any season, might be best when served on a chilly fall day. Steep and sip in the warming oolong as you watch the vibrant leaves slowly dance their way to the ground.
Yum!
Posted by: jonny goldstein | May 10, 2010 at 02:59 PM