Took a break from the oolongs, the puerhs and tried something new, Teavivre's White Peony, Bai MuDan. A decent sized sample of nearly ten grams and more than enough to experiment with on another steeping occasion. My water temp was just under 180f, for I am too unused to white teas and fear ruining them with too-hot water. However, steeps one and two were so overly mild that I wonder if it was my palate not being sensitive enough at this time, or perhaps all these flavorful puerhs had caught my attention too much? I still can't say but I did turn the heat up to 185 and the following steeps were more flavorful, the color darkened a little and it began to really wake up and be joyful. I think perhaps I hindered the joy of the leaves awakening by steeping them in a small confined celadon pot, perhaps a tall clear jar will allow for better movement of the leaves, a dance perhaps with the water and ultimately a sweeter brew?
I look forward to find out!
