Bright: Alive, as opposed to a dull-looking leaves.

Coppery: Color of infused leaf, usually denoting a good quality tea. Particular reference to CTC (cut, tear and curl).

Dull: Opposed to bright and reflective leaves.

Even: The term is usually combined with “bright” or “coppery.” No irregularity in color of infused leaf.

Green: Generally undesirable. Typical of a first flush.

Mixed/Uneven: Infused leaf which has more than one color.

Moldy: Teas gone off through age, or damaged by water while in storage or shipment.

Musty: Suspicion of mold.

Old: Having lost most original attributes through age.

Pungent: Extremely brisk. MOST desirable.

Quality: Essential characteristic of a good tea.

Strength/Strong: Substance in tea liquor; body.

Sweaty: Undesirable taste due to storage in heaps on floor for long durations.

Thin: Lacking in body; often due to over-withering or inadequate oxidation.

Wild: Liquor character found in end-of-season teas. Undesirable.

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