Pouchong Qing Cha • 包種青茶

Pouchong Qing Cha • 包種青茶

The name Pouchong, 包種, literally, "wrapped with seeds", is a sentimental reference to how this tea was once gifted, long ago, wrapped in paper with seeds still clinging to its twigs. It is an extremely light fermented oolong, also classified as a qing cha "teal tea", 青茶. Pouchong is actually one of the lightest fermented teas, with only 10~20% fermentation, so it retains some green tea characteristics. During the 1990's, it became popular amongst tea fanatics

The leaves are deep green, long, loosely twisted, with very long stems. A pot with a wide opening is convenient for fitting the leaves in without difficulty. The aroma is much like a green tea, but with a deep floral tone. The first cup is actually strikingly reminiscent of a light, high quality Tie Kwan Yin. The flavour mellows quickly in the next steep to a more floral aroma, similar to a high mountain oolong, only smoother. A gentle, green melon taste looms through out most of the session.

Pouchong's light character doesn't make it an especially durable tea, but the first few steeps are as lovely as any other tea I've had. So lovely that it's currently one of my favorite teas! I also suspect that since this tea was harvested nearly one year ago, its taste has slightly diminished. I'm hoping that Kkik Da Geo will decided to stalk it again in May, when it's fresh.

Pouchong Qing Cha from Kkik Da Geo (Pochong Cheongcha • 포총청차):
http://kkik.webpy.co.kr/bbs/view.php?uid=50&startPage=2&boardid=in_chinaboard&category=%C0%FC%C3%BC