Served multiple short infusions at O5 Tea Bar, Balhyocha Noeul exhibited strong roasted peanut and coco notes. Cupped at 4 minutes at home, it seems to reveal some interesting notes. The cold wet leaves can make one salivate as they have a spicy aroma reminiscent of chili peppers or kimchi without garlic and onions. The steeped tea, at some point, presents itself like a light ginseng root herbal drink.
Although the tea may not be as lengthy as some good Chinese oolongs, it is smooth and complex. It is almost perfect for an autumn day with a slice of pumpkin pie.
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| O5 Tea Bar |
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| Korean Balhyocha |
Type: Oolong Producing Country: Korea Preparation: 95°C 4 Min
Dry Leaf: The leaves are dark brown and tightly twisted. They have the nose of roasted nuts, ginseng roots and dried figs.
Wet Leaf: The leaves look small and are still twisted. The aromas range from wicker and roasted peanuts to ginseng roots and chili peppers.
Liquor: The tea is brown in color. It is medium-to-full-bodied and has no detectable astringency. From roasted peanuts, its flavors fade into coco and ginseng roots.
Tee Score: 4 out of 5
