Tea Review: Copper Knot Hongcha

Copper Knot Hongcha Reviewed by: Juturna F.
Type of tea Black, loose-leaf	Flavor aspects Natural
Where I got it Teavana	Cost $9.80 (USD) per 2 oz.
How I brewed it Filled electric kettle with cold, filtered water. Heated to 190F. Steeped 2 scoops tea in 2 cups water (in a large teapot) for 2 minutes. Strained out tea leaves while pouring tea into mugs.	Rebrewing notes Although we didn't brew it a second time, from the light flavor I would expect this tea would probably make a decent second brew but lose flavor by the third. Still, we didn't actually try it, so I wouldn't say for sure.
Review To me Copper Knot really does taste vaguely like copper. It's a classic, natural "black tea" taste, but because it's a lighter flavor than most black teas, it winds up almost tasting metallic, with a hint of citrus tang minus the citrus taste. I think it's a tea that should be drunk plain--milk and sugar would certainly be too much and overpower the flavor--but if you were going to sweeten it, a little lemon and honey would probably go very well. I really like this tea. Even though it was named for its color and not its flavor, the name is apt for the taste, too. It's something I can see drinking in the afternoon, curled up with a good book or just relaxing on the balcony. If you like unflavored English Breakfast or Earl Grey, especially if you drink either plain or with lemon and honey, you'd probably like Copper Knot. Do remember that it's not as strong and will probably taste weak the first time you sip it, but don't overbrew it to compensate (We brewed it too long the first time and it came out quite bitter and far too dark, ruining the tea. Go with 2 minutes instead of 3 and don't use water that is too hot). The lighter flavor is part of the charm, and is what creates the unique metal taste.
Copper Knot Hongcha Reviewed by: Nyssa Mehana
Type of tea Black	Aroma Earthy (loam) and sweet (honey)
Where I got it Teavana	Cost $9.80 (USD) per 2 oz.
How I brewed it Filled electric kettle with cold, filtered water. Heated to 190F. Steeped 2 scoops tea in 2 cups water (in a large teapot) for 2 minutes. Strained out tea leaves while pouring tea into mugs.	Rebrewing notes Did not rebrew.
Review Color: Rich copper color (From the golden and black tea leaves intertwined). The color is my favorite part of this tea, so use a clear or white cup so you can truly appreciate it! Flavor: A medium-bodied tea. (Not too in-your-face) Slightly metallic taste from gentle tannins. Earthy-quality, like loam Slight hint of honey-sweetness Not bold enough to add milk or sugar to. Best enjoyed by itself. Smooth taste, not bitter. Very enjoyable! Personal opinion: Easily drinkable and quite enjoyable! Not too bold of a flavor, so can be enjoyed by itself. Don’t eat anything too bold while you’re drinking it or you’ll lose the nuances of the tea’s flavor. I haven’t tried re-brewing it, but it’s worth a shot. LOVED the copper color.

(Learning to Like Tea Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Guest Post: Types of Tea, Guest post: Getting the Best Cup of Tea)