2014 Xiaguan T8663 "Iron Cake" Shou / Ripe Puerh Full Bing Cake (357 grams)

A number of these cakes did not fare well in the long trip from Yunnan, China to Seattle. They will brew fine, but were broken in half during transit. We're selling them at a discount.

The Xiaguan Tea Factory is one of the oldest in China. They are located at the foothills of the Himalayas on the edge of the Xiaguan mountain range in Dali, Yunnan, China. The factory is uniquely situated to channel the strong winds that travel down these mountains. They claim that it is these winds that give their puerh its special taste.

This shou puerh is a classic blend and very popular in China. The "T" designation implies that it was heavily compressed and is called an "Iron Cake". Layered aromas and flavors present a complex experience with notes of earth, minerals, and a pleasing mustiness all balanced with a sweet aftertaste.

Xiaguan uses leaves sourced from many tea gardens in Yunnan. These leaves represent multiple years. Their blend is proprietary and a secret. These leaves are a good balance of different grades with some very large leaves, small twigs, and also smaller buds.

Notice the squared off edge that indicated the iron cake compression.

This tea has been Seattle stored since December 2014. Use 5-7 grams of leaves and brew with 6-8 ounces of water at or near boiling. Wash twice for 3s each, then start with a quick steep of 8-10s. With each re-steep adjust the steep time to your taste.