Friday Tea's "Ooh-La-Long" is a captivating blend that lives up to its playful name, offering tea enthusiasts a unique and complex experience. As part of their Valentine's Day "Love Potions" collection, this tea promises to be an "aphro-tea-siac" that sets hearts aflutter.
Upon opening the package, one is greeted with an enticing aroma that hints at the complexity within. The dry leaves present a visually appealing mix of oolong teas, pomegranate pieces, and cacao nibs, creating an anticipation for the brew to come.
The liquor steeps to a beautiful amber hue, releasing a fruity and creamy fragrance that is both inviting and intriguing. The aroma is a delightful prelude to the taste experience that follows.
The flavor profile of "Ooh-La-Long" is truly a journey for the palate. The blend of two oolongs - a Ti Kwan Yin and a Lao Cong - provides a fascinating base that evolves with each sip. Initial notes of floral sweetness from the Ti Kwan Yin dance with the deeper, charcoal-like essence of the Lao Cong, creating a dynamic interplay of light and dark.
The addition of pomegranate adds a fruity dimension that, interestingly, may remind some drinkers of raspberry. This unexpected twist adds to the tea's charm and complexity. The cacao nibs contribute a subtle chocolatey undertone, while the honey granules and elderflower bring a delicate sweetness and meadowy lightness to the blend.
What sets "Ooh-La-Long" apart is its ability to surprise and challenge the taste buds. The complexity of flavors may initially catch one off guard, but it invites the drinker to explore and appreciate its nuances over multiple infusions. As suggested by Friday Tea, this blend truly does evolve, offering a new experience with each steep.
The recommended steeping parameters of 175°F (79.4°C) for 3-5 minutes allow for optimal flavor extraction. With approximately 60mg of caffeine per cup, it offers a pleasant energy boost, making it suitable for a romantic afternoon tea or an evening of indulgence.
While "Ooh-La-Long" may not be an everyday tea for all palates, it certainly succeeds as a special Valentine's Day offering. Its unique blend of flavors and its ability to evolve over multiple steepings make it a tea worth exploring, particularly for those who appreciate complex, fruity-chocolatey darker teas.
In conclusion, Friday Tea's "Ooh-La-Long" is a five-star blend that showcases creativity and quality ingredients. While it may not be to everyone's taste, it offers a memorable tea experience that embodies the spirit of Valentine's Day indulgence. For those seeking a tea that challenges and delights in equal measure, "Ooh-La-Long" is certainly worth a try.
