Review: Emerald Buds

Name: Emerald Buds

Seller: white2tea

Origin: Guizhou, China

Season: Spring 2019

Parameters: 212°F, 20 seconds to start, adding 10 seconds with each steep

The green dry crescent buds smell like newly sprouted spring grass. When wet, the aroma is like freshly cut grass. The liquor is a faint yellow.

1st Steep

According to white2tea’s recommendation, I used boiling water. There is a distinct bitterness, but it isn't unpleasant. Strong astringency. Medium to full body. Notes of grass, and a bell pepper-like lingering aftertaste.

2nd Steep

Much like the first. No major changes in flavor or aroma. A subtle note of asparagus. Feeling the astringency acutely.

3rd+ Steep

The buds still smell green and grassy, but the green bitterness has faded from the liquor. The flavor is much weaker, gentle, with only a tinge of bitter. Astringency keeps building. The aftertaste retains some of the fresh, vegetal notes. It's mostly become a mild, warm, viscous tea.

Overall Impressions

Very green and vegetal. Nice for summer. Not much change in the aroma or flavor throughout. Simple, yet refreshing and vibrant. I'll be curious to try it at different temperatures and brewed grandpa style soon.

---

IG: @teaoverseas