What does it remind you of?
Before drinking, pause over the cup. Think of a place, a food, or a familiar object that its aroma brings to mind. Your kitchen after baking, a wooden cupboard, a bunch of flowers: an everyday association is a useful note.
Write “reminds me of” rather than trying to identify an ingredient. A tea that brings honey to mind does not necessarily contain honey. You are describing an impression.
How does the sip feel?
Let the tea cool to a comfortable drinking temperature. Take a small sip and pay attention to its texture. You might choose words such as light, rounded, smooth, drying, or simply “pleasant”. Use a comparison if it helps you remember.
Try separating what you taste from what you feel. “A bitter taste” and “a drying feeling” are different observations. You do not need to judge either in order to notice it.
What stays after the sip?
Wait a moment before drinking again. Notice whether anything seems to linger or change. Taste again when the cup is a little cooler. Compare the impressions without trying to make them match someone else’s review.
A useful note needs only three lines: one for aroma, one for taste or texture, and one for what remains. Finish with an ordinary question: would I like another cup?