Didn't realize that these aren't great for gaiwan since they turn into small piece once they open up and small amounts get through the crack of the gaiwan when pouring. also instructions on back of the sample are not ment for the gaiwan or gongfu brewing so over brewed the first pellet but learned a bit about gongfu and my gaiwan.

Flavor was hard to describe it was very familiar but can't quite compare it to something else.

One of the steeps reminded me of unsweetened ice tea but hot or warm.

Sweet ish smell but bitter at time.

The second pellet of the sample i flashed steeped

That wasn't as bitter

The first pellet that I over brewed also had a drying effect on the mouth.

Good thing is that it warmed my body up.

I am still finding my way this this version of Pu'er. I brewed it as directed and found it too be dark as black coffee and equally as bitter and astringent. My plan to see if I can find the right balance is to steep it in more than 12oz. of water, lower the water temp, and give it only a 2 minute steeping time.

We'll see. At this point I only give it two stars becasue my first brew ended up just getting dumped and I have not felt motivated to work harder at making these Pu'er pucks work for me.

This tea is a true gem. Having been a devoted yerba mate fan for twenty-five years, it became too acidic for me and I searched for a good replacement. Along with trying a few others, I tried this and it was by far the best. Have been drinking this for over three years now. I usually use one cake for two cups of tea, about 12 ounces, then reuse the leaves again the next day with another high quality tea bag of puerh added from another company. Seeing some reviewers here use a cake up to five times, I think I’ll try experimenting with less brewing time on the first round. Truly exquisite, balanced, rich flavor and just enough caffeine to feel energized without the jitters.