As the seasons change we often alter many of life’s habits. Many hibernate during the cold winter months while others venture out into the frigid temperatures and brisk winds. Others vie for the glow of the sun, basking in its warmth. While others seek the solace of Spring rains with its temperamental nature. The one thing that doesn’t change is the ability to steep and enjoy a cup of tea. Year-round, I drink hot tea rarely venturing into the world of iced teas. Even in 95 degree weather, I can be found with a cuppa tea in hand, enjoying the flavor, smelling the leaves and attempting to discern the nuances that make a oolong different from a white tea. Today’s choice for examination… Sowmee White Tea.
Composition: Chinese white tea leaves plucked during late April, May and June.
Dry Visual: A beautiful display of light and dark green leaves as well as red, brown and yellow. I am reminded of a pile of freshly raked leaves in the Fall – some broken and some whole, flat and not curled or twisted. Stems and some tips are present. Thanks Tropical Tea Company for the picture.
Dry Aroma: Surprisingly fruity.
Flavor: I found Sowmee White Tea to be delightful. Very flavorful from start to finish, which is typically uncharacteristic for white teas, as they tend to be delicate and mild. Sowmee is considered a lower grade white tea, however, the flavor does not suffer from this fact. For lack of a more descriptive term, I found Sowmee to be slightly nutty, naturally sweet, and definitely fruity.
Sowmee White tea has little to no astringency, therefore, sweetener is not required. While flavorful I would not recommend adding a sweetener as it may alter the flavor profile in a not so pleasant way.
Liquor: A golden yellow hue.
Brewing Time: The recommended steeping time for Sowmee White Tea is 2 – 3 minutes in 190 degree water. I steeped for 3 minutes as recommended.
Manufacturer: Tropical Tea Company
Caffeine: Yes.
I have to thank my June Co-Op Tea Swap partner for sharing this treasure with me. If you have had the pleasure of enjoying a cup of Sowmee White Tea, please stop by and share your experience. Until then… Happy Tea Drinking!
