The dry leaf is strongly aromatic and has a strange, different aroma--considerably sharper than most greener oolongs.

After brewing the first cup, I notice a mildly soapy aroma, but this completely vanishes upon drinking it. The aroma is very complex, with spicy, herbaceous tones, reminiscent of a weedy thicket in late summer. I can see how this is called bergamot, as it really does bear a slight resemblance to bergamot--I find it is more like the wild bergamot plant in the mint family than it is like the bergamot orange used in Earl grey tea. There's a peppery finish.

This tea is flavorful, and in an odd way. There is a strong, but muted bitterness--rather than taking the form of a bite or kick, it's more constantly bitter throughout.

I really like this tea, and it is unlike any oolong I have tried. Unfortunately, it's getting up to the pricey side at $4.50 an ounce. But comparing it to Tie Guan Yin? I strongly prefer this to any Tie Guan Yin I've tried, including stuff exceeding that price. It's different, substantive, and strong.

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