The florals are a lot more subdued than I remember them being this time around- possibly due to the two year aging factor. Whatever the cause, the effect makes for an incredibly pleasant cup, while still resulting in a wide bouquet of flavour. I’m positive that lavender and jasmine are undying sensory stimulators; the rose and orange blossom notes are more subtle and act like flavour highlights. The silver needle base adds refreshing elements of bright lemon citrus and cooling cucumber greens.
Steeping this baby is still a touchy subject; 180F is just a tad too much and results in an aftertaste that is reminiscent of biting into an orange rind or chomping down on a bunch of lavender or rosemary (so bitter). I’d strongly recommend keeping the temp below 180F/82C unless you’re a fan of that type of palate cleanser.
The second steep (5min, 175F) is lovely with the jasmine taking on those fruity banana/melon notes. The lavender’s bitter edges are smoothed out. The first steep is tasty but the second is exquisite.
Flavors: Cucumber, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Melon, Orange Blossom, Rose
