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Blog Tasting Notes

Phoenix Dan Cong Sampler Review

Tea tastes can change. Even dramatically. My feelings about Dan Cong oolong are a great example. The first time I tried a Phoenix Dan Cong–many years ago now–I was not impressed. I don’t remember how I brewed it that time, so it’s hard to know whether my brewing technique and/or my palate have changed.

Close up of twisted, dark brown and golden Phoenix Dan Cong tea leaves in a white dish

I am now a huge fan of Phoenix Dan Cong. I’ve learned to deeply appreciate this Chinese, twisted-leaf oolong from the Phoenix Mountains ( in Chinese, Fenghuangshan). The more common flavor notes among the different floral and spice notes in the varieties that I’ve tried so far are: minerality, hops, and a slight and beautiful bitterness (if brewed carefully). There’s always a lush fruity and/or floral aroma(s) as well. These leaves are so fragrant–despite not being blended or scented–that they are named for their floral and/or spice aromas.

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Blog Tasting Notes

Ode to Roam

This post is my ode to Roam–a loosely compressed Dian Hong black tea blend sold by Crimson Lotus Tea. (This post is NOT sponsored.)

Some teas are beautiful (to me) in ways that are easy to explain–heady floral bouquet, deep minerality, silky texture, notes of cream, chocolate, or berries, and so on. By contrast, other teas win my heart and it’s much harder to explain why. Roam is one of those teas!