Qi Lan

Mineral, sweet, deep, dark. Yum.

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I’ve tried many different Wuyi oolongs, Da Hong Pao for the most part, but never had Qi Lan.

Thanks to my generous friend boychik, I got to experience it for the first time today.

I was expecting a very similar taste profile…and yes thats what I got to some degree.

Nice mineral mouthfeel, roasty and nutty…I’m a fan!

But…the big difference lies in the extreme sweetness I get from this tea, feels like a sweet nectar!!

A lot sweeter than any rock oolong I have ever had.

People…it’s yummy.

But this type of tea must be prepared gongfu in order to fully appreciate all its characteristics and nuances. (Only in my humble opinion of course)
It’s easier to control this way…rock oolongs tend to turn bitter very easily. But when done properly, they are amazing and so rewarding!

This tea is nothing short of greatness.

I am impressed so far by Joseph Wesley…Integrity always wins at getting my business ;-)

Thank you boychik for introducing me to them, I see an order in my near future!

As usual, pics of the session:

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The story how i got the sample of this tea you can read in my previous note:

http://steepster.com/teas/joseph-wesley-black-tea/53004-da-hong-pao

Qi Lan (奇兰, English: “rare orchid”)
i didnt know what to expect since its my first Qi Lan. i was sceptical and pretty sure i wouldnt like it as much as DHP. I was wrong.
Leaves are gorgeous, long and twisty. very complex, juicy,sweet and roasted. its medium roast, doesnt overpower other notes, complements nicely. it is so aromatic.
Around 2-3 steep cannabis arrives. I’d say that hui gan is much stronger than in DHP. Sweet and minty, long lingering aftertaste, long after i stop my session. i had 6 strong steeps, but still keep the leaves. few steeps here and there yesterday and before yesterday. i suggest not to oversteep, it gets bitter easily. even when its bitter the aroma and sweetness is incredible.

my parameters:
6g 100ml gaiwan 195F
3sec rinse/pause/10/7/5/5/7/7/10sec etc

Thank you Joseph Wesley for the opportunity to try these incredible teas. im looking forward to when you decide to put them for sale!

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