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Michael Plant

11/6/06

>
> Draconus wrote:
>> Looking for high grade Da Hong Pao. My trip to HK recently introduced us
>> to this wonderful (boldly understated) Oolong.
>> Obviously first generation is nigh on impossible to acquire and alas, my
>> budget would not extend to such an investment :-( ...I noted in an
>> archived post that a 20g lot sold for $25000 in an auction in HK some time
>> back! :-o)
>>
>> A google search has revealed numerous places to buy subsequent generations
>> at more affordable prices. However whilst I am prepared to shell out a few
>> shekels, I'd like to make an informed purchase.
>>
>> Could the Oolong aficionados amongst the group make any recommendations to
>> an online vendor that offers a very good, high grade Da Hong Pao.
>>
>> Regards
>> Mal
>> Oz
>>
>> P.S report on our first tea 'expedition' to Hong Kong coming soon to a
>> group near you.
>> Cheers
>
> Best Tea House sells a first generation DHP (as distinct from the
> ORIGINAL DHP plants, from which tea is no longer sold) for $120 USD per
> 100g. By first generation it is meant that they are the first
> transplantation from branches taken from the original DHP plants.
>
> Where did you taste your DHP, and what was it? Most online vendors
> sell low grade DHP that isn't worth their $$ and you are likely to be
> disappointed if you tasted something pretty good.

Hi,

In my experience, among the various teas, Da Hong Pao
together with WuYi Shui Xian are perhaps the trickiest
to get hold of. So many choices, and so many variables
lead to so many failures. I am going to see about getting
my hands on the first generation DHP that you mention,
although I might already have drunk it. If so it was quite
good. (I will know by the end of the day.)

At best, these teas leave an impression on your throat
that is at once sweet and complex, and a mouth feel with
a sense of body that delights the senses. Also, an aftertaste
that lasts long and changes as the seconds pass. Good
WuYi teas are worth the effort to find, but so many are
dull and listless. Those are my humble opinions.

Michael