- Jingmai Gulan (blend) 2021 (357g cake shipped: $220 / €210 from EU store incl. EU VAT [much better deal if in EU])
- Lao Man E Sweet Gushu 2021 (357g cake shipped: $350 [only available in main store])
Prep: 7.5g, 100C, porcelain teapot (125ml rinse, 100ml subsequent infusions, from a few seconds to >half an hour around #10)
These were both excellent to me. Lao Man E was almost love at first sip, but did take finishing 1-2 non-rinse infusions before really getting to me. As described by seller, a fleeting bitterness that turns into sweetness. Satisfying complexity, depth, development in later infusions, all new to me. It has a wonderful, relaxing energy and a full, satisfying taste, even if there is no particular highlight. I guess the whole thing is the highlight. Felt like I am truly discovering sheng for the first time (though no idea how typical or not these attributes are).
Gulan was a different story. Didn't like my whole first session, got lingering bitter & medicinal notes, found it inaccessible. Except the next day my taste buds felt like it again, and also the next (which finished my sample pack of just over 20g). Sessions #2 & #3 were tasty, complex, bitter, medicinal, turning fruity in later infusions, but not in a flat or sour way, just very pleasant. Didn't taste very flowery to me, even though that's supposedly Jingmai's reputation. I was advised to reduce temp to 90C to tame the bitterness and maybe bring out more nuance but all tea was already gone and I actually didn't mind the bitterness at all after getting accustomed. Will have opportunity to try as I ordered a whole cake.
After trying the samples, I ordered the Gulan as a cake was available from the EU shop. Would have done the same for Lao Man E, but have to order from China & pay 20% tax and additional customs fees on top of the more expensive price, so didn't pull the trigger for now.