The Hualien district located at the eastern coast of Taiwan is home of this specialty: Honey Black. It is mainly produced during the summer months when the young leaves are nibbled at by small grasshoppers, which leads the leaves to stop their growth and to curl. At the same time, the salivary juice of the grasshoppers initiates a reaction with the plant juices, yielding a slightly honey-like flavor. The result is responsible for the name as well as the wonderful taste. A very well-worked leaf with longish, dark brown leaves and some copper-colored tips, slightly curled. The strong, bronze-colored, shining cup unfolds a scent reminiscent of Oolong teas. The floral notes with a hint of honey and some malty aromas will pamper your taste buds.
4-5 minutes
203-212 °F
1 heaped tsp./6 oz serving