Our "Black Dragon", a Congou, is made in the style of classic Fujian Province blacks. "Congou" is a name used in the tea trade for "gongfu" which means skill and patience, attributes needed to make a really good black. The leaves are mix of black and golden buds and playfully shaped in the Fujianese style. A well-made Congou offers complex flavors of malt and sweetness. This style of black tea is excellent as a morning beverage and to be enjoyed during the day as a refreshing cup. Lot# 12.
Lot Notes. This lot was selected as it offers a range of flavors and aromas. The lot is a good mix of leaf and bud. The firing of the leaves was even handed, almost delicate - with the result of a freshness to its fragrance. This lot ages well with malty notes deepening with time. Note how you feel after drinking this tea!
Tea Facts. Cultivar was developed in Fujian Province. While similar in aromas and taste profile, Black Dragon is a larger, thicker leaf than the better known Golden Monkey. Harvests early in the spring.
Tasting Notes. Multi-layered in taste - ranging from softly sweet cocoa, to hints of malt and fresh fruit. Always refreshing, one will also enjoy its lingering, sweet finish. The aroma is crisp and clean. Leaves will steep multiple times. Milk and sugar can be used.
Brewing Suggestions. Three grams or a rounded teaspoon of leaf is our recommendation for 8 ounces of water. Water temperature should be about 195 - 205 degrees F. Steep for 2-2.5 minutes. Will yield multiple steeps.
BLACK TEA
3 grams/1 teaspoon per 6 ounces of water
195° - 205° F
2 Minutes
Black tea is a leaf that has been fully oxidized. This rigorous oxidization produces a tea of hearty rich flavors while reducing its astringency and bringing out a natural sweetness.
Flavors will range from bright, brisk, peppery, clean, and smoky to aromatic, bold, malty, nutty, spicy, and sweet. Blacks are known for long, delicately aromatic, and comforting aftertastes. Note, they are often enjoyed with milk or sweetener.
-
Delicious!
Loving this tea! Sweet, smooth, and delicious, both hot and iced.
-
Above average
More subtle than many blacks, I like the gentle sweetness and soft earthy quality of this tea. I brew the first cup for a minute or less, and later cups progressively longer. Brewing it like this, I do not find it bitter as some. I'll be getting this again.
-
Not so flavorful
This tea is a very light black tea, not fermented for long. I was expecting a more rich malt from the description and am disappointed.
-
Terrific
great
-
Great
Grainy taste, amazing aroma.
-
Delicious!
Really awesome black tea. Great honey sweetness. Makes a good iced tea as well.