Name: Rishi Tea Organic Pu-erh Ginger Loose Tea
Brand: Rishi Tea
Type: Pu-Erh, Flavored
Form: Loose Leaf
Cost: $24.23 for three 3.8 ounce tins
Review: Pu-erh teas can be a bit “different” and I’ve met more than a few people who don’t particularly care for them. The flavor of pu-erh is decidedly more pungent, complex and earthy than most teas (some people say that pu-erh tastes “like a barnyard”). Still, pu-erh is a taste worth acquiring, and a good place to start is with Rishi Organic Ancient Pu-Erh Ginger tea.
The nose on the dry leaf is dominated by ginger, which is expected: Ginger is a scent that usually dominates any blend. At the back of the dry nose is a hint of orange, all dusted over with the flavor of aged, fermented tea leaves. This tea has a lovely “Christmasy” quality, though it is too good to reserve for just the holiday season. 
When steeped, the ginger note continues to predominate in the nose. The liquor is very dark (i.e. it looks like coffee). The mouthfeel is substantial and akin to whole milk. The ginger continues to be the dominant note, although there is a hint of orange rind along with robust tea flavors as well. The ginger and orange work together to emphasize the “mellow” aspects of pu-erh while minimizing its “barnyardy” qualities, making this a very accessible pu-erh.
The tea should be prepared with boiling water, 1 tablespoon of tea per 8 ounces of water. (Those of you who read my review of Rishi’s Organic Earl Grey might remember that I thought Rishi’s ratio of 1 tbs of leaf to 8 oz water was too strong. It is too strong for the Earl Grey–in my opinion– but is just right for this tea.) Experiment with the steep times. I found that a long steep does not make this tea bitter, it instead draws out an interesting molasses note along with added ginger-heat/bite.
Recommendation: If you like ginger, this is your tea. If you want to try pu-erh but are scared that you might find it too “weird”, this is your tea. If you like a well-crafted flavored tea of any sort, this is your tea.
Just drink it already!
Affiliate Links in this Review?: Yes
Other Reviews of this Tea:
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I really love Ginger Pu-erh by Rishi! I would have never thought the dominant flavors of ginger and pu-erh would blend nicely together. Oh how wrong I was. If you have never enjoyed a cup – do so now!
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Thanks for stopping by, Nikki! I agree. The ginger pu-erh is a surprisingly good treat!