53 Tasting Notes
Potent stuff! The first time I tried this I used way too much rooibos for the amount of water, so here’s my second go.
The coconut is definitely there, but not as strongly as I had imagined. It smooths out the strong woodsy rooibos base for sure. Coconut cream pie isn’t the first thing that comes to mind while drinking it, but I must say it isn’t too shabby. Resteep time.
I cold steeped one of these in a gallon of water for about 24 hours and added just a touch of maple syrup. The result is still dark and rich despite the 2 qt water recommendation, and the watermelon flavor doesn’t taste fake at all! The black base has a certain pungency which I think balances out the sweet fruitiness, and there’s a floral/rosey finish as well. This might be my fave SBT thus far. (But then I kinda think that every time I try another one…) :)
Preparation
I absolutely love this stuff. It’s like every tea lover’s crack. Not that I’ve ever tried crack before, but…you know.
The only way this could be better is if I had gotten a higher grade matcha (I got the lowest). There is a little bit of an earthy/pungent aftertaste, but other than that it is EXPLODING WITH CARAMEL.
Plus, I’ve always had a guilty love for frappes and this is the perfect alternative. I bought this on a whim because it was on sale and I will definitely be buying more Red Leaf matchas in the future. Probably not the Matchaccino next time just because I want to experiment with my own sweeteners. :)
I usually blend this with unsweetened vanilla coconut milk and a few ice cubes. If I’m feeling a little crazy I add things like kale, a peeled aloe leaf, hemp powder, and/or a chunk of frozen banana!
It tastes just like watermelon! Not in a jolly rancher sort of way, but a REAL watermelon sort of way!! Might have to snag some more with my next order. I oversteeped it a little so it’s a bit tannic (is that a word?) and lukewarm, but I don’t mind at all. I was in the process of steeping it at work and got caught up with an ER patient.
This was the last of four samples that came with my first Butiki order. Now to dive into my actual order. ;)
Leftover sample snagged from momo. :)
Meh. Rose hip is definitely the main note here. Not that those are terrible or anything…it’s just a bit sour for me. I’m tasting a little of the green tea and orange peel as well, but not much. I’ll finish the pouch but won’t be chasing anyone down for more when it’s gone.
