Tasting Profile
Appearance. Amber, deep and glossy in the glass. The Shonan Label bottling is described as deep amber.[1]
Nose. A honeyed aroma reminiscent of ripe fruit; on the Shonan Label the aroma is given as a rich honey-like scent recalling ripened fruit.[1]
Palate. A rich bitterness comparable to bitter chocolate, with a smooth finish. The Shonan Label is described with dark-chocolate-like astringency. The aftertaste is a distinctive sensory lingering known as 'Kannon-in' (観音韻), described as sensual and long.[2]
Structure. Points supported by the available descriptors:[3]
- Tannin: rich bitterness/astringency likened to bitter chocolate
- Length: lingering, sensory aftertaste identified as 'Kannon-in' (観音韻)
Provenance & Sourcing
Specifications. Classification and range position:
- Category: blue tea / oolong (青茶)
- Line: Real Honey, offered in Deluxe and Imperial tiers
- Leaf: Muzha Zhengcong Tieguanyin, Taiwan
Production Philosophy
The name Tieguanyin (鉄観音) is said to derive from the blessing of the Guanyin deity.[1]