Description
 
2018 Spring Yunnan Gaoligong Mountain Ancient Tree Sun-dried Black Tea Cake
 
Black Tea
 
The 2018 Spring Yunnan Gaoligong Mountain Ancient Tree Sun-dried Black Tea Cake is a premium black tea crafted from the leaves of ancient tea trees nestled in the Gaoligong Mountain range of Yunnan Province, China. This tea is unique due to its sun-drying process, which enhances the natural flavors of the leaves while preserving their essential oils. The leaves are harvested in the spring, when they are at their freshest, and then carefully processed into a cake form, allowing for optimal aging potential. This tea represents the rich biodiversity and traditional tea-making techniques of the region.
 
Flavor Profile
Initial Impression: Upon brewing, the tea releases a warm and inviting aroma, with hints of tropical and strongly  mellow, preparing the palate for a delightful flavor experience.
Taste:
Rich Mineral Note: The flavor profile features a profound mineral quality that reflects the unique terroir of the Gaoligong Mountains. This mineral essence adds depth and complexity, grounding the overall taste.
Mellow Texture: The mouthfeel is mellow and smooth, allowing the flavors to unfold gently on the palate. This softness enhances the tea's drinkability, making it enjoyable for both new and seasoned tea drinkers.
Tropical Fruity Note: A delightful tropical fruity note emerges prominently in the flavor profile, offering hints of ripe mango, passion fruit, or pineapple. This fruity essence adds a refreshing and exotic dimension to the tea, elevating its overall richness.
Floral Notes: Subtle floral notes weave through the tasting experience, providing an elegant aroma and flavor that beautifully complements the other elements. These floral characteristics create a harmonious balance with the mineral and fruity flavors.
Honey Sweetness: The tea features a natural honey-like sweetness that lingers on the palate, enriching the overall experience. This sweetness is well-defined yet nuanced, providing a luxurious mouthfeel that enhances the tea's complexity.
 
Characteristics
Color: When brewed, the tea produces a deep amber to dark reddish-brown liquor, showcasing the quality of the leaves and the richness of the infusion.
Body: It has a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, offering a comforting and engaging experience with each sip.
Aging Potential: This tea has excellent aging potential, allowing it to develop further complexity and depth over time. The cake form also makes storage and aging convenient.
 
Brewing Recommendations
To fully appreciate the rich flavors and complexities of this exceptional black tea, it is recommended to use the gongfu brewing method:
Water Temperature: 90-95°C (194-203°F)
Tea-to-Water Ratio: Approximately 5-7 grams of tea per 100 ml of water.
Steeping Time: Start with 30 seconds to 1 minute for the first infusion, gradually increasing the time with each subsequent steep to explore the evolving flavors.