Lan Xiang Ancient Tree Cake | 2019 Sheng Puerh
Tea Region
Tea tree
Cultivar
Harvest
Picking & processing
Jingmai Dazhai, Yunnan, China
Camellia sinensis var. assamica
Da Ye Zhong / 大叶种
Spring, 2019
One bud and up to three leaves
From the heart of Jingmai Mountain, where ancient trees tower over misty groves, comes the Lan Xiang Ancient Tree Sheng Puerh that captures the essence of this fabled region. Crafted by the renowned Dr. Pu'er brand, this tea is a testament to the centuries-old traditions of wild arbor harvesting. The leaves, plucked from venerable trees that have stood through the passage of time, carry with them the depth and character of their storied origins.
As you prepare the tea, the dry leaves offer a subtle hint of what’s to come, releasing an inviting aroma reminiscent of ripe stone fruits. When infused, the leaves unfold their full potential, filling the air with a medley of woody notes, gentle spices, and a faint trace of smoke. Each pour reveals a golden liquor that speaks of refinement and complexity.
The first sip introduces you to a world of layered flavors—exotic woods and the rich texture of aged leather are met with delicate, fruit-forward undertones. There’s a whisper of spice that lingers, balanced by the sweetness of rock sugar, creating a harmonious blend that evolves with every infusion. As you continue to steep, new dimensions emerge—floral hints, perhaps an orchid’s bloom, adding a soft, fragrant finish to the experience.
This sheng puerh is a tea for those who appreciate the art of patience and discovery. It’s a tea that tells the tale of its origins with every cup, inviting you to explore the depths of its flavors as it matures and reveals its hidden complexities.
Spiced pear tart
The warm spices and caramelized sweetness of a pear tart resonate with the tea’s rock sugar and spice notes, offering a dessert that both complements and contrasts the tea’s profile.
Duck confit with cherry sauce
The rich, savory duck, paired with the tart sweetness of cherry sauce, enhances the tea’s fruit-forward nuances and balances its robust, earthy character.
Cranberry-walnut bread
The tartness of cranberries and the nuttiness of walnuts in this rustic bread highlight the tea’s floral and fruity layers, providing a simple yet satisfying pairing.
Tea character
Leaf
orchid, nectar, dry birch log
Cup
orchid, stone fruits
Flavor
orchid, stone fruits, rock sugar
How to brew
Temperature
Tea weight
Water amount
Steeping time
95 °C
5 gram
100ml
25 sec (add 5 sec per steep for at least 12 steeps)
Temperature
Tea weight
Water amount
Steeping time
95 °C
4 gram
500ml
2 min (you can resteep 3-5 times)