Kuzhushan 2012

For lovers of pleasant bitterness. Stored until the end of 2020 in cool, dry Zhengzhou, the flavour of this Sheng at first belies its age, remaining distinctly fresh and vegetal on the palate. In its slow development, it has gained an edge of spice, however, the pungency of clove and ginger mingling with the astringency of plum skin and the sweetness of cooked peas. Perhaps it takes after its namesake, though, with the 'bitter bamboo mountain' lending its namesake character—but not too much. It remains round and pleasant, and sure to satisfy those looking for a tantalising tea with a bit of everything.