Laoshan Village "Black Needles" Black Tea

Promising Smell; Disappointing Taste

"My notes on taste and experience are below: Dry leaf: Mountain air, seaweed, dark fruits, grape must, and dried flowers. Thin, wiry leaves are deeply black like chipped flint. Wet leaf: Grape must and dark fruits, pomegranate, slightly lychee scented as well. Liquor: Amber autumnal gold growing darker and then lighter again. A bit watery, but smooth and slightly lingering. Cup smell: Tasting notes: Bitter and drying with notes of wild grapes, like biting into a sour wild grape oh a hot summer day in the woods. A drying sensation on the back of the tongue that turns into a taste of toasted biscuits. As the tea is re-steeped, a black pepper note is perceived. Body sensation: Little beyond the lift of bodily caffeination and a warm sensation in the low torso."

— Evan D. (3/5)

The best black tea I've had — incredible

"This Laoshan Black Needles is absolutely amazing. Hands down the most delicious and aromatic black tea I've tried. The taste is rich and cozy — think sweet potato, dried fruit, and something like fresh-baked fruit bread. The mouthfeel is luscious and smooth. Every sip is pure comfort. If you like warm, satisfying red teas (what we call black tea in the West), don't miss this one."

— Alexandr S. (5/5)

Excellent aroma and flavor

"Am drinking this now. Excellent flavor and aroma. Very fresh yet well-rounded. A winner!"

— LaoBai (4/5)

Surprisingly Delightful

"I'm not sure why, but I didn't expect a lot from this tea, but I was very pleasantly surprised. It is very smoke forward, but not in an overwhelming way. it also has subtle Woody notes and is somewhat reminiscent of roasted walnuts. The flavor develops wonderfully over multiple infusions, and gradually becomes more smooth. in later, infusions, the smokiness dulls slightly Aunt the flavor becomes more sweet, with more hydrating and smooth mouth feel. Last but not least, it's a fantastic value. I would highly recommend giving this tea a shot!"

— Gabriel (5/5)

"Very good morning tea. Has a comforting aroma and feel, and the taste is very hearty without being astringent and with a touch of sweetness."

— Gabriel (5/5)

Excellent

"Warm wet leaves keep summoning my nose for another deep sniff. Tea soup is cordial, warm like a cozy fire, with baked sweet potato and a hint of prunes and returning sweetness on the lips. I drank it gong fu style and got at least 5 steeps. Gentle cha qi, so it's a good bedtime brew. Would gladly buy again."

— Fred (5/5)