This past weekend I had some 2nd Flush Darjeeling, I cannot remember the estate right now, but the leaves came from SerendipiTea. We had a pot after breakfast and it was a bit weak, even after steeping for four minutes. The aroma from the pot and the leaves were very nice full muscatel, but out of the cup it was very thin.

In the interest of full disclosure, Darjeeling is not my favorite, but this one seemed weaker than most. I’ll try it again but it probably needs to be steeped upwards of five minutes to get the full flavor as the seller’s site suggests. Better luck next time I guess.

Thanks to my fading cold, I don’t have the overwhelming need to constantly drink a hot watery liquid. And on the upside, I can now taste my tea again. This morning, I trying out a new organic Earl Grey. It’s from a mystery distributer, but it smells lovely.

Sadly, it’s just doesn’t taste that good.  While I’ve been having mixed luck with my tastebuds and Earl Grey tea, this one is a bit harsh in a more absolute sense.  Organic teas seem to be harsh in my limited experience.  But, boy does that bergamot smell good!

What’s in your cup? I started the day off with pot of Keemun Hao Ya from the folks at Rishi.  Most of their description is apt, but did not get the smoky taste they note.  Overall a robust cup to start the day and do the people’s work.

Special thanks today to  Cat, my loving wife, who has created this space for you and me to talk tea.