Keemun Mao Feng Black Tea (Keemun Hair Peak) | Keemun Mao Feng Hong Cha

I do love a good Keemun, and this is the best I have ever tried. The evidence of its quality begins with a look at the leaves, which are finely rolled, mostly dark brown, but with a surprising amount of tip for a Keemun. The nose is of pungent spice and wood. The tea infuses to a medium-dark amber with a spicy nose of cinnamon. Extremely smooth and rich spicy/fruity (baked apple?) flavor that gives way to a deep wine-y note that hints of brandy. Slight astringency at the finish: Just enough to clear my palate after a breakfast of sausage and eggs, but not overpowering. Unlike most black teas, this one is actually good for multiple infusions: The second is almost as good as the first. (Wow.) Incidentally, the beautifully produced dry leaves are also quite stunning after infusion. Do take a few moments to examine the brown mat of spent leaves after you enjoy your Keemun Mao Feng: The thin, elegant leaves are so beautifully proportioned, and so well plucked, it seems a shame to throw them away. This is one of those teas that you just have to try for yourself to understand how good a tea (particularly a black tea) can be. Extraordinary.