My Overall Impression (Score of 89 %)

It’s been cold recently in Michigan (I wonder why) so I’ve been looking through my inventory for black teas.  Sometimes, you want something that’s bolder, richer or just carries a bit of a punch.  White and green teas are more delicate and as much as I love oolongs, they do not love my digestive system.  As I’m on this journey during this time, I like to look for something just big.  Not in bergamot like Earl Greys (which are my favorite) since I drink so many of those, I desired something different.

I forgot that I had this blend from New Century Tea Gallery and instantly knew that this was the next one to evaluate for you.  I fondly remember sampling this in Seattle last summer at their shop.  It was big, bold and greatly balanced through multiple steeps with their gaiwan.  Using my system, I wanted to see the difference in brewing technique.

3 minutes later, I had my answer and WOW.  This is big as the aroma does not do it justice.  That first sip instantly screamed have this on hand after coming in from the cold (like shoveling, running errands, getting the mail, whatever).  This is a strong brew but beautifully structured.  Good tannins keep this tea in check with its acidity for a nice balance.

To me, this is more of a food tea.  Yes, I love drinking this on its own.  However, pairing this with beef stew in the morning (I’m sorry but I love leftovers around 10 am after breakfast) with a cup of this just seems to make the day go better.  Take a look at this one and don’t have sticker shock at the price.  You are purchasing 4 oz bags which makes this exceptionally affordable for the quality and number of brews.

What do I think this Tea’s Personality is?

• This is a hearty cup of tea to fully enjoy on a cold day (and not because its 14 F right now).

The Price

The price on 1/27/25 is $32.50 for 4 oz (w).

Broken down:

• 4 oz (w) = 113 grams
• 113 gm / 3 gm for steeping = 37 brews
• 37 brews from package = app. 87 cents per brew

Typically, I double steep all my teas (use the tea twice) so I can get 74 cups or approximately 44 cents per cup.  For this quality of tea, this is a great price when you break it down.  I understand how the initial price can be daunting.  Please note, you may be able to stretch it with a third brew or 2.5 gm samples)

Aromas

• Opening the package, you are presented with a great lightly toasted malt with hints of smoke, wood and hazelnuts.
• These are followed by musty tones, black pepper and cereal notes.
• Once brewed, it shows a very mild nose (could say its muted) but has the same beautiful notes of the toasted malt and hazelnuts.
• Not sure why but it reminded me of a cross between a smoky cold grill, tobacco and leather.

Flavors

• The first sip brings a solid structure that screams a deep, rich body that’s substantial. That first note is quite bold and strong.
• It shows a stewed beef angle (flat with no seasoning), along with a smoked beef or roasted meat.
• This is just toasted malt / biscuit notes as well without fruit.
• On the end, it shows a green herb quality (thyme, oregano, parsley).
• Its dry, with good acids, strong tannins with a hint of chalk on the palate.

Scores

• Aromas (4.4/5)
• Flavors (8.8/10)
• Overall impression (4.6/5)
  • Total score = 89 percent (17.8/20)

Foods to Pair and Why

• As I mentioned earlier, I would love a cup of this on its own during the colder months. However, I would not turn down a good sugar soft sugar cookie with this.
• For something to start with (Ok, we call these appetizers), I would love the concept of some mini shredded beef tacos with either fresh salsa or just some chopped parsley.
• I’m not sure why I’m on this mental kick right now but a malted milk cheesecake/cookie/ice cream would just be a stunning dessert combination. Ensure that the dessert in question is not too sweet to throw the tea out of balance.
• Yes, a good beef stew with carrots and potatoes would be lovely with this along with braised short ribs, smoked brisket etc.
• This brew with its structure and flavor would be a perfect after dinner cup to enjoy. While the malted desserts listed above would be wonderful, don’t you sometimes crave a really good flaky crust apple pie?  Just saying…