Sri Lankan Hand Rolled Black Tea

This tea is unlike any I have ever tasted! I admit that the first time I brewed it, I steeped the leaves probably 2-3 minutes too long, and it became shockingly bitter. I almost threw it out. I decided to balance the bitterness with a hefty dose of light brown sugar plus more half & half than I put in any other tea, and it made a most unexpectedly divine milk tea. A strong brew handles milk so well! It has a very robust quality that tastes like pure malt. Literally like a malt ball without any chocolate on the outside, or like a spoonful of malt powder. A tad tangy, sharp, almost tastes fermented, as it doesn't have the "darkness" of assam. Flavors that lend themselves nicely to accompaniment with a sweet dessert. For me it's carrot cake. I drank thinking that there is no way it tastes floral, but then I finished my last drops and I was hit with an intense aftertaste of lush honeysuckle. I could feel the caffeine gently fizzing through my veins, but I simultaneously felt extremely relaxed. The effect was like matcha but more intense somehow. My goodness, I am going to be addicted to this tea! I suggest brewing for 2-3 minutes for a more delicate cup and 6-7 minutes for milk tea. Will absolutely purchase again--very soon I expect.

Henrietta's description of 'exquisite delicacy' is spot on, very special indeed and one of the few black teas I drink without sugar. There's no describing the caramel-like complexity here along with the lovely clean finish. Delicious on its own of course, but also a nice accompaniment to sweet pastries.