Harvested and compressed in 2009, and aged in Hong Kong until 2020, this green (sheng) pu-erh hails from the Mengku region of southwest Yunnan Province, near the border of Burma.

The decorative wrapper evokes a Han dynasty roof tile, and was produced in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. Superior-quality leaf material was used for this pressing; note the abundant golden buds spiraling throughout the cake, indicative of a careful hand-picking. To prepare, gently flake off a small segment, and rinse briefly with boiling water before brewing. Throughout many infusions, flavors of cherry wood, sweet grain and molasses meld into a complex and satisfying cup as the luminous copper liquor deepens and the leaves reveal their maturity.

Note: total weights of compressed pu-erhs can vary slightly over time, due to shifts in climate/storage.

Country: China
Region: Yunnan
Tasting Notes: cherry wood, molasses, bran
Year of Production: 2009

380 g

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  195-200º F

  3-5 grams, 3 minute steep

  ⅓ full, 10-30 second steep