Name: Teavana Eastern Beauty Oolong Tea
Brand: Teavana
Type: Oolong
Form: Loose leaf
Cost: $18.00 for two ounces, quantity discounts available.
Review: Teavana is a well-known mall chain, perhaps most famous for its many flavored teas. But Teavana also has some tasty classic tea offerings, and their new “Eastern Beauty” is one of them.
“Eastern Beauty” is Teavana’s name for what is more commonly known as Oriental Beauty, Bai Hao, or Dong Fang Mei Ren. This is a darker oolong with a unique flavor said to be the result bites from tiny “leafhopper” insects. I have found that these oolongs can be particularly good for providing multiple infusions.
The dry leaf is brown with plenty of silvery tip, and infuses to an olive-brown liquor. The nose is slightly pungent, spicy, with a hint of vanilla but also a green backnote of steamed green bell pepper.
The taste is very smooth, with a bit of honey sweetness and a continuation of the slight green/vegetal notes at the finish. I’ve tried this tea prepared a couple of ways, and have found that a large thick ceramic gaiwan is the best brewing (and drinking) vessel for the tea, which doesn’t get bitter, even after a long steep.
Incidentally, the spent leaves are really pretty: They are somewhat small, a very pretty shape, and are varying shades of brown and green. Do take the time to appreciate them once you have enjoyed your tea.
Availability: Eastern Beauty is available in Teavana stores, on Teavana Eastern Beauty Oolong Tea
website.
Affiliate Links in this Post: Yes.
Sample Provided By Retailer?: Yes.
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