Pouchong oolong tea from Adagio Teas consists of large leaves that once steeped open nicely producing a nice clean delicate taste. A few tips however...
First, even though the tin instructs to brew for five minutes in 212 degree water, I have found that only 3 to 3 1/2 minutes in 200 degree water is perfect, making the beverage light and smooth with a mild flowery aftertaste. Adding boiling water tends to make it a wee more "tangy".
But for folks who want more of a stronger floral/grassy taste, brew for 5 to 6 minutes.
Although you can only get two good infusions out of this variety, it has a very subtle body and light overall flavor character. It is a model example of what a relaxing Taiwanese oolong tea should represent.
On average, mild floral notes with just a hint of sweet "grassiness" that lingers on the palate for a few seconds before tapering off down the esophagus is what you can expect. The tea is not overpowering and if any oolong tea from Adagio should be bought in a larger size...pouchong would probably be on that list.
Funny thing is...this loose oolong tea currently is one the lowest rated on Adagio Teas (overall rating score of 85). A large percentage of folks like it, but they just seem to give it an average rating. Some describe it as a mild green tea that tastes more flowery, while others wish it were more robust.
I like this tea, and while not the best oolong tea I have sampled, it still remains a calming beverage that is great to have right after dinner as a treat. Goes good as an afternoon cup too.
