Back to reality from my very relaxing trip down the Jersey Shore. I have this one more day of vacation, however, and I am going to savor every moment. I begin with a cup of one of my favorite China Oolongs called Bai Hao. Translating to mean “hairy crab”, I’m not sure why it’s called this but the leaf is rich and variegated.
After steeping in 180 degree water for 3 minutes, some of the leaves are still curled up and some have straightened to reveal their intact state.
The liquor is a buttery amber color with a sweet aroma. The taste is quite sweet with a fruitiness that lingers on the tongue. Many Chinese Oolongs that I’ve tried have a woodiness to their taste that I don’t really care for. I think it is probably connected to how long the leaf is oxidized. The darker leaves seem to produce that woody note. This tea, however, is light and fruity and very enjoyable.
It was an interesting experience to be away from my computer for a solid week. Of course, many vacations are taken with the intent of removing yourself from the busyness of your day to day life. If I had a laptop I probably would have brought it with me as there was internet access in the condo. I’m glad I didn’t though because it was a nice break from the electronic world and the distraction it so readily provides on a daily basis. For one week, my life was focused on walking on the beach, inhaling the salty air and listening to the sound of the waves. It gave me the opportunity to just “be” and listen to that voice deep within which sometimes gets drowned out by everything else in my life. I read and wrote in my journal a lot, too.
More on my Jersey Shore experience in the coming week…
Art and Tea 
Bai Hao = white tipped/hairs
Thanks Claire, I must have been thinking about another tea. I remember one of our tea buyers translating an Oolong name once and it must have been another tea I was thinking about.
After driving 5 hours yesterday, I guess my brain was mush this morning. lol
Oh, Jersey Shore, I’m jealous! I live only an hour away, but I tend to steer clear at this time of year since I’m not a huge fan of crowds and Summer prices. We always go in the off season, but sometimes you just crave the full experience, you know? Hope you had fun!
Sounds like you had a relaxing time away. I too, recently took a vacation and left my computer at home. Three weeks away. I did have withdrawal pangs the first few days, but ended up actually enjoying my vacation more without all the electronics.
Thanks for sharing!
I always have Saturday morning tea on Sunday! đŸ˜€
I know what you mean, Lisa, about the crowds. Fortunately, it wasn’t too bad where we were and I avoided going out to the more touristy spots as much as possible. I spent most of my time on the beach. You’re so fortunate that you’re only an hour away and can bop on over during the off season.
Wow, 3 weeks away from your computer, teeveebee. I’m jealous! Now that I’m back at work and on the computer so much, I realize how important it is to take a break now and then.
You’re welcome!
I agree LB, Sunday is a wonderful day for tea!
Hi and welcome back! Sounds as if you had a lovely vacation.
Thanks Lynn, it was wonderful.
Bai Hao is one of my favorites! I just ordered some from the Imperial Tea Court. Can’t wait to get it!
It is a marvelous tea. Enjoy, Steph!
I very MUCH enjoyed skipping around your blog today.
Loved it alllll !
xo-S
Thanks so much, glad you enjoyed your visit!