This Spice, Herb, or Vegetable Beer elegantly showcases the esteemed West Lake Longjing Green Tea against a crisp, pale malt canvas. Delicate aromas of toasted chestnuts and fresh-cut grass mingle with a subtle floral honey sweetness from the light base. On the palate, the Longjing tea provides a sophisticated vegetal depth and a hint of roasted nuttiness, balanced by a very low hop presence that allows the tea's nuanced character to lead. It finishes exceptionally clean and dry, with a gentle, tea-driven tannic snap that refreshes the palate, making it a contemplative yet highly sessionable craft experience.
Appearance.Pale straw to gold (3–5 SRM). Brilliant clarity with a frothy white head that shows moderate retention and fine lacing.
Aroma.Moderate-high intensity dominated by Longjing tea; notes of pan-fired greens, toasted chestnuts, and a whisper of orchid. Malt is low, providing a clean, crackery background. Hop aroma is nearly absent to favor the herbal tea profile.
Taste.Initial impression is of crisp, light grain followed immediately by the complex herbal layer of green tea. Flavors of sweet grass and nutty savory notes prevail. Bitterness is low, derived more from tea polyphenols than hops. Finishes dry and clean with a lingering leafy aftertaste.
Mouthfeel.Medium-light body with moderate-high carbonation that provides a lively, scrubbing sensation. Very low astringency from the tea leaves adds structure without harshness. No alcohol warmth.