Tea Tasting: Jade Star V

Ah, the hype of Jade Star and its iterations. My first experience with this series of tea cakes was during the release of Jade Star IV, which I’ve previously reflected upon. Known for its effects on the body, the experience is worth sharing in words and in person! Grab some tea and join me as I explore this 2021 release by Mei Leaf!

WHAT IS JADE STAR?
Years ago in China, Don Mei tasted an aged white tea and was blown away by the body sensations and potency – floating around the streets of Shanghai. Since then, this line of aged white teas has gained popularity and anticipation! Each Jade Star iteration contains a blend of Bai Mu Dan and Shou Mei. It is this utilization of dynamic materials and age that has created a powerful experience.

DETAILS
Season: 2010 & 2012 Bai Mu Dan & Shou Mei
Cultivar: Da Bai
Origin: Fuding, Fujian, China
Picking/Processing: Bud + young and large leaves
Elevation: ~700 – 1000m

MY EXPERIENCE

My Brewing Parameters
Leaf to Water Ratio – 7g for 150 mL
Starting Temp – 95°C
Infusion time(s) – 15 sec. +10

Eyes Dry: Loosely compressed, small bud/leaf ratio, espresso brown and copper large leaves, walnut variations
Nose Dry: Figs, cream of coconut, cocoa powder
Nose Wet: Moss, petrichor, pecans
Eyes Liquor: Champagne topaz to molasses amber
Mouth Texture: Medium-bodied start, clean and smooth – growing texture of soft dryness
Mouth Taste: Raw sugar, Japanese pear, biscoff
Nose Cup: Honey
Mouth Finish: Warm, thick as cotton and lightly dry
Eyes Wet: Clay-gray, chestnut brown, silver-green buds
Body Sensation: Focused and relaxing, warm in the chest and abdominal regions

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HOW IT MAKES ME FEEL
Awakening in a humid forest, I’m greeted by the contemplation of bird chips. The air is heavy with the aroma of woods and earth as the morning sun dances through the canopy. It’s this warm embrace that is tempered only slightly by a gentle cool breeze from a nearby brook. A sharp inhale ignites the nostrils with juicy sweetness as the Summer air shifts.

FINAL THOUGHTS
The 150g cake runs at $0.59 a gram, which I’ve consistently enjoyed well into 16 infusions – and that’s before boiling the leaves for final extraction of feel-good warmth. I felt a buzzing sensation that induced relaxation and allowed me to go about my day with focus and clarity. If you’ve tried Sunfire Ripple or Midsummer Lightshow from Mei Leaf, this tastes similar yet with an added ‘oomph to the head. I highly recommend sharing this with others as its potent effects are great for socializing and enjoying the last warmth of the season.

Have you tried this tea? What have your experiences been with it?

Steep well!
-Marco