TTES No. 18 is Taiwan’s most popular black tea variety. As a landmark tea cultivar, it offers exceptional mouthfeel and flavor. Here are the characteristics of Ruby (TTES No. 18).
Characteristics of TTES No. 18: What is its flavor profile like?
| Varietal Aroma | The defining characteristic of Taiwan Tea No. 18 Ruby is its unique varietal aroma, which features subtle notes of mint or cinnamon depending on the harvest season and processing method. |
| Mouthfeel | The mouthfeel is relatively smooth with a mild astringency. It typically lacks the high bitterness of Assam, and any slight bitterness dissipates quickly. |
| Liquor Flavor | The liquor is rich, full-bodied, mellow, and bright. Each sip delivers a bolder flavor profile than typical black teas while remaining warm and gentle on the palate. |
In addition, the flavor profile and characteristics vary across seasons: spring Ruby tends to be sweeter, summer harvest offers a better astringency and a bolder taste, while winter tea is more delicate and fragrant. It is generally agreed that summer-harvested Taiwan Tea No. 18 showcases its distinctive traits the best. For beginners looking to experience its unique flavor, summer tea (ideally harvested from June to August) is strongly recommended.