Qi Lan

Galangal and toasted coconut greet the nose with this Qi Lan, almost suggesting a hearty curry, but the liquor's body is nothing if not well-balanced, with temperate fruitiness and a touch of spice. Wait for the hui gan, though—ahh, an eruption of peach, condensing on the palate for minutes after a single sip. The magic the 'strange orchid' cultivar wreaks is a little different under each incarnation (and each processing), but consistently brings a beautiful florality through; this tea is a perfect yan cha for those who want all of the aroma that roasting can bring out with just the barest hint of its flavor.