2009 Boseong Green Tea Sample

One hasn't consumed that much green tea as of late. This is normal, keeping with the harmony of the seasons. The cool thermal qi and subtle sweet flavour of green tea harmonizes best with the rising energy of spring. However, with temperatures in January the warmest on record, spring has officially arrived here on Vancouver Island. A sure sign is the spattering of cherry blossoms that line the street just a few blocks away.

So how appropriate that one try this green tea sample sent generously by Chris.

The staples are pulled out of the sealed bag and the dry leaf is scooped into the plain bamboo scoop. The sae jak (maybe even jung jak) sized leaves of deep green smell of salty seaweed, evergreen tree, and figs- not that roasty.

These leaves are placed into a pot when the boiling water has cooled considerably wet embraces dry. Then the liquid is poured into the lovely tea cup that Chris made and sent with the samples.

The first infusion is very light, a little sweet and creamy with slight roasted rice back notes. A nice silky mouthfeel reaches down the throat in the first few sips.

The second infusion the water is a touch warmer, infused for a touch longer. This infusion is more salty, seaweed, and evergreen tree. A sweetness sneaks in briefly under bitter notes. The mouthfeel is most noticeable on the lips and on the tip of the tongue but stretches deep down the throat with grace. It finishes with a dry roasted taste and feel.

The third infusion even warmer water is used for slightly longer. Sweet, dry, lime notes fade into a light wave of dry bitter. The sweetness resumes in the breath. The mouthfeel of this tea is its high point and stays with one for long after the tea is swallowed. The qi on the other hand is not that noticeable. It is gentle on the stomach, rising softly, and bringing a bit of concentration and mental freshness.

The fourth infusion is also a bit hotter than last, a bit longer than last. This infusion has a graininess to it. More evergreen notes are also present especially in the aftertaste. The tastes of this tea are mild, this tea is not an overly flavourful or sweet tea but it feels complete in what it has. The mouthfeel remains stable.

This tea continues to be enjoyed throughout the fifth, sixth, and seventh infusions. Each with hotter water and steeping times that double each other with the resulting infusion. The mouthfeel drops off infusion to infusion from this point. Graininess and wood now dominate with distinct lime notes. But with each infusion even these flavours fade away leaving dry lime with chalky, grainy, bitter notes. To be expected this late in the session.

Thanks again Chris for the experience of sharing this leaf in your cup.

Peace