Organic Da Hong Pao Oolong

The very first time I opened it there was a piece of plastic thread mixed in with the leaves. This could be possibly from the rip cord when opening it. The dried leaves just smelled very grassy. The first steep had a lot of tannins and minerality giving it an astringent mouth feel. The tea was also a little bit oily like an Earl Grey. The tea had light smoky flavor and good body. On the second steep the sugary fruity aromatic notes come out. Unfortunately, they are only olfactory notes and not imparted to the taste. The second steep was very smooth and astringency decreases but no robust tea flavor. The leaves after the second steep held on to the aromatic notes very well. The third steep tasted like water lightly flavored with tea. Most good oolong teas can withstand at least seven steeps. There is no production date on the packaging so I can only speculate on why my experience differ so greatly from other reviewers. The tea does seems to be better when steeped with a gaiwan instead of a infuser.

Ok, the wine reference might be a stretch for some of you. But if you've tasted smooth, very robust wines, you'll know what I mean. Before this Oolong, I was hooked on Taiwanese high mountain teas (purchased in Taiwan) but this takes the top spot, although they are quite different. I'm overly sensitive to bitter tastes and this has none and has an incredibly deep, rich flavor. Yum.

I cold brew this tea and it’s absolutely fantastic. I discovered more complex subtle notes came through with absolutely no astringency. It’s fantastic no matter how you brew it, but I love this tea cold brewed!

Asked for a sample, then ordered a tin, now a pound. Yes, I really like this tea and I've been drinking it every morning. Should help me get through the winter.

Best oolong I've ever had!

Lovely warm flavor. Full bodied but not bitter or agressive.

Rich, deep flavor that leads to a mellow response. Forget coffee's caffeine frenzy! And a taste that doesn't linger or sour your mouth (and breath) for hours. This is essential tea.

Very distinct flavor good with a little bit of honey or just by itself

Refined and composed, not sharp or overbearing. Delicate and distinct taste. A gentleman among the crowd. Confident.
My personal favorite from all the 12 Little Red Cup teas I have tried -- and that's saying something!

A Great Oolong tea, smooth and great tasting no matter how short or long you steep it!