Backlog. The final tea of my 3-year spread of Old Ways Tea’s Old Tree Black teas.
This tea reminded me of an old leather couch in a study. Pipe tobacco and raisins, malt, florals, tangy. Interesting unexpected umami. Glorious silky texture later turning oily with mouth-watering minerality and a complementary light astringency that opened the door for a strong returning sweetness. Explosive yet contemplative energy, warming and cooling. Six great infusions.
Each year from 2016 to 2018 was markedly different, each with their own strengths.
2016 — complexity and strength of flavors, lingering aftertaste, longevity
2017 — roundedness and daily drinkability
2018 — strength of brew, structured body/mouthfeel and pleasing energy
All delicious. All aromatic and engaging.
Flavors: Baked Bread, Blueberry, Brown Sugar, Butter, Campfire, Cinnamon, Floral, Flowers, Leather, Malt, Mineral, Nutmeg, Orange, Raisins, Rose, Tangy, Tobacco, Umami, Wood
