Adagio Custom Blends, Caine Steelwind

This didn’t turn out quite how I expected. Instead of the flavors and spices layering together into distinct phases of the cup as I’d hoped, it moreso blended and became its own entity. Which honestly works considering the character’s species history in Project Tribal. The peppermint plays very nicely, the spice is barely noticeable and not overpowering as planned, and the flavor is quite literally “dark”- it is a fullbodied taste without being overly dry, and is very subtle in the way the chocolate mint plays throughout- it’s not an in-your-face chocolate mint profile and makes a compelling background. At the same time, this is a tea which needs to be focused on and respected for what it is. I’m certain I’ve caught the essence of this character in a flavor, and that’s pretty (bleep)ing exciting. :) It’s not an in-your-face powerful tea, so it may be underappreciated by those expecting/wanting a strong cup wherein each flavor is tasted consecutively, but it’s definitely really good. Dare I say great?

I’m pretty certain this is the first time I’ve had ceylon/assam, and this definitely is the first time I’ve had it (or this blend).

There’s only a pinch of spice, and so it’s not a super fancy tea, but it’s very direct. Still deliciously fruity but not overpowering, and that’s what I’d wanted. Slightly drying, not too froo-froo fancy, and warming.

For this character in particular, I think this is perfect for now, but I’d love feedback!!