Zhong Guo Hong leaves resemble long, thin, bluish-black needles with a strong sour aroma of forest berries. Here and there, golden edges of buds are visible. When warmed by breath, a caramel-sugar note of freshly baked pie crust is added.
The golden-yellow infusion exudes the aroma of honey and strawberries or wild raspberries — sweet and sour, with a caramel accent. The taste has a pronounced apple and cherry sourness and a biscuit tone — like soft cookies with fresh berries. The sweet and sour juiciness of pears and melons. A slight spiciness. The lid of the gaiwan gives off a grassy, bitter aroma with a hint of menthol. The tea leaves a long-lasting sweet aftertaste with a cosy baked accent.
The tea warms and invigorates well, helping you to gather your thoughts. The pronounced sourness is reminiscent of tea with lemon, so this variety will appeal to lovers of this flavour combination. A good red tea with a light taste and medium strength, for the morning or mid-day.