brewing this side by side with the 2008 shoumei white from last months tea club so this isn’t exactly a review, just a comparison. The 2005 Zhenghe is uncompressed and comprised of what basically looks like a pile of leaves in early fall. the tea liqour is very clean and floral with hints of soft woods and honey, hints of pilsner malt here and there as well. Very much so bright and clean tasting. The 2008 in comparison is much more packed with dark fruits (red dates) darker honey notes and a dank/damp earthiness (damp leaves?). While they both have a nice cooling mouthfeel and a long lingering sweet finish, I’d have to give personal preference to the 2008, but I feel the 2005 is of higher quality.
I definitely need to brew this tea in a few different ways before giving it a real review! the 2008 can basically be brewed however but the 2005 is a bit more delicate.
Edit (2 hours later): OMG THE CAFFEINE.
