My Overall Impression (Score of 84 %)

Summer is almost over, and Fall is creeping up faster than we all expected.  I’m already seeing trees starting to turn.  However, I’m still holding on, so I wanted to try this tea.  I was not disappointed.  Some may call this tea one dimensional as it shows light malt tones and an easy drinking character.  I’m calling this complex.  When you drink this, it’s exceptionally smooth but more importantly it shows a flavor profile with minute little flavors that remind me of winter veggies.  Hard to describe but this makes this special and one that I’m going to savor.

The price as of 9/13/23 is $20.16 for 50 gm.

Broken down:

• 50 gm / 3 gm for steeping = 16 cups
• 16 cups from package = $1.26 per cup

Typically, I double steep all my teas (use the tea twice) so I can get 32 cups or approximately 63 cents per cup.  This is a limited production tea so you may want to get some before it’s sold out.  Truly worth it.

Aromas

• In the bag, it shows high grassy notes with honeyed malt and a faint green note that reminded me of fennel and thyme.
• It’s hard to describe but the aroma has incredible depth to the malt indicating richness and body.
• Once brewed, the aromas were very muted. You can smell the toasted malt (without green or grassy notes).  It has a light cream essence with a touch of honey.

Flavors

• There is an incredible lightness to this brew’s toasted malt flavors with a hint of toffee sweetness.
• On the palate, it reminded me of eating an apple and having that creamy texture in your mouth.
• It reminds me of the essence of winter squash and the underlying tones of fall vegetables.
• It’s exceptionally clean and well balanced even though it feels one dimensional on the flavor.
• It shows great tannins that are hidden but really well integrated.
• Just a lovely mouthfeel on the palate.

Scores

• Aromas (4.1/5)
• Flavors (8.4/10)
• Overall impression (4.3/5)
  • Total score = 84 percent (16.8/20)

Foods to Pair and Why

• Since it’s very clean with a hint of toast/wood and no fruit, this is one that I would love to sit and drink.
• However, pairing food with this would not be difficult. Bratwurst or Italian Sausage would be an amazing pairing as the depth of the malt would shine and the acidity would cut the fat from the palate.
• I would love to have this for breakfast with a good charcuterie tray with Italian meats and fresh melon.
• Maybe because fall is coming but the essence in the core of this tea makes me want to roast off some butternut squash to make a beautiful simple soup.
• To relax, I’d love some shortbread with a hint of toasted ground almonds in the blend to match the overall flavors.