Wildflower and herbal lightness with good feel
Honey, barnyard, thyme, hay, wild herbs, dark
The initial flavor is herbal with tender candy sweetness alongside a watery and slightly buttery mouthfeel . Wildflowers emerge followed by a bit of a dry, herbaceous note and some walnut bitterness along with tartness. The tea tastes subdued – no single flavour distinctly stands out - but presents an overall darker/malty body accented by honeyed notes and wild herbs. Yi Shan Mo often reminds me of herbs like thyme, this one too. Easy drinker.
Comforting and relaxing with its 12 years of age it reminds me of a walk in the autumn forest
3
What's intriguing about this tea is that the first taste invokes an expectation of sweetness, which isn’t fully realized; it quickly transitions to a more herbal flavor and doesn’t leave a strong aftertaste I felt there should be—as if the experience abruptly ended after leaving a good initial impression.
This might also be due to the sample's extensive travels, though airing out the bag in a warmer room for a few hours beforehand helps smooth it out (its winter here at the mountain house).
Overall, it’s really enjoyable! It feels relaxing and like good quality leaves. The vendor states it originates from unpruned 200-year-old trees with an early spring harvest. Taste-wise, it presents a darker body with fewer high notes, yet retains subtle hints of wildflowers and thyme, alongside a slight bitter/tartness and no astringency.
Plus, it’s very affordable!
