Shu Pu Erh Giant from Yong Zhen, Yong Zhen Factory, A, 2023

This Shu Pu Erh tea, sourced from Lincang County, is shaped like a large brick weighing one kilogram.

The leaves are large, tightly rolled, and contain only a few buds. The pressing is soft and easily peeled with a pu'erh knife. The aroma of steamed leaves reveals wet wood, bark, walnut, and hazelnut. As the leaves cool, they begin to smell like fresh milk.

The tea infusion is dense and dark. The flavor is balanced, without overly bright accents, refined. A bright woody note, chestnut bitterness, cocoa bean, and minerality are evident. The finish is soft and iridescent: initially, the bitterness of chestnut gives way to dark chocolate, then a sweetness develops into a berry-like tartness.

This tea will appeal to both those who enjoy woody Pu Erhs and those who appreciate a dense, chocolatey texture. It provides excellent energy and clarity of thought.

How to brew

Brewing in a gaiwan or clay teapot

• Water: 90-95°C
• Amount of tea: 7-10 g per 120-150 ml

Place the tea in a well-warmed gaiwan or teapot and let it warm up for 10 seconds.

First infusion: 10 seconds

Subsequent infusions: gradually increase the steeping time by 10+ seconds

Steeping in a thermos

• Water: 85-90°C
• Amount of tea: 5 g per 400-500 ml of water

Use slightly less than you'd like to avoid over-steeping the tea, especially if you plan to keep it in the thermos for several hours.

Brewing over a stove

• Amount of tea: 10-15 g per 800-1000 ml of water

Bring the water to a near boil and turn off the heat. Let it steep for a while to obtain a soft, pleasant infusion.