Songyang Xiang Cha

This tea is a good example of an everyday tea without compromises. Its thin, dark leaves release aromas of seaweed nori, the dried salty kind that anticipates a mouthful of umami. A dousing of warm water opens them up, revealing waves of leafy greens and a distinctly savory character that resembles sencha before a walnut note confirms its roasting. It's a hearty soup to accompany savory meals or to contrast sweet snacks.