2005 Xinhai “Lao Ban Zhang” ripe, is average, feels a bit worn out, I have it stored to hopefully awaken it a bit. 25 years has most likely dulled this generally, far too old for a ripe IMO.

2010 Chunhai “Jin Ya” ripe, is very small buds, this is still interesting with hints of rooibos, a nice red colour, mild taste.

2023 Red Loon ripe, has a nice forest floor aroma, second steep (10 seconds) is a lot darker colour, muted tannins, richer mulchy broth. 3rd (10sec) everything amps up a little bit, but stays relatively the same. Steep 4 and 5 are more like steep 2.

2024 Waffles ripe, really interesting aroma, especially when drank from a thermos (20g in maybe 300ml of hot water). Waffle/pancake and maple smells. The taste is an average ripe.