I had my doubts about this one actually tasting like creme brulee but when does S&V NOT deliver on their flavors?!? I would say S&V has some of the most consistently accurate tea flavors. I must have steeped this one perfectly on the first steep because this one tasted so much like creme brulee! The second steep was too hot and steeped too long, therefore ruining the flavor. But the first steep was marvelous! It mostly has that flavor of slightly torched caramel with hints of custard. I think it should have more of a custard flavor but I certainly didn’t expect a sweet burnt sugar/caramel flavor. The black tea base is perfect at a teaspoon and a half. Not too weak of a brew and not astringent. It’s also a solid black tea for showcasing so many of S&V’s great flavors. I will definitely try to steep the remainder of my sample like the first steep.
Steep #1 // 1 1/2 teaspoons for a full mug// 10 minutes after boiling // 2 1/2 minute steep
Steep #2 // few minutes after boiling // 4 minute steep