EN
Shu pu-erh from 2010 by the Xiaguan factory in the form of a nest, "tuo cha" (沱茶), weighing 250 g. The brand is called "Pine and Crane" (松鹤, sōng hè): in Chinese culture these two images are associated with longevity, steadfastness and harmony with nature.
The tea is more than ten years old, so it has had time to settle and has become softer and more complex. It is a mature shu pu-erh of the classic Yunnan school with nothing superfluous: a full infusion, familiar notes of aged tea and a rich aftertaste.
Characteristics
- Type: shu pu-erh (accelerated fermentation)
- Factory: Xiaguan, "Pine and Crane" brand
- Region: Yunnan, China
- Year: 2010
- Shape: nest (tuo cha), 250 g
- Flavor: dried fruit, nuts, chocolate, earth, raw wood
Aroma and Taste
Dry leaf: a dense dark nest; a scent of earth, wet wood and dried fruit.
Infusion: deep and complex, with notes of date, prune and fig, walnut and pine nut, chocolate, earth and raw wood.
Aftertaste: long and slightly sweet, with a chocolate shade.
Why You'll Love It
A classic aged shu pu-erh that is pleasant to drink in the cold season and in a calm setting. For the tea ceremony, the nest is easy to break with a pick into the amount of leaf you need. Thanks to its age and shape, the tea makes a worthy addition to a home pu-erh collection.
How to Brew
Gongfu brewing
- Leaf weight: about 7 g for a 120–150 ml gaiwan
- Water: 95–100 °C
- Rinse for 5–10 seconds, pour off the water
- First infusion 15–20 seconds, then gradually increase the time
Western-style brewing
- Leaf weight: 3–4 g per 200 ml of water
- Water: 95–100 °C, after a rinse
- Steep for 3–5 minutes; a gaiwan or a teapot can be used
Storage
Store the nest in a dry, cool place, away from direct light and foreign odors; ideally in paper or a closed box without a fully airtight seal.