Xiaguan Te Tuo Pu-Erh Sheng · 2012

Brief description

The 2012 Xiaguan Te Tuo Sheng Pu-Erh is a classic Tuocha from the long-established Xiaguan Tea Factory . Naturally dry-aged for over ten years, this Sheng Pu-Erh already displays noticeable maturity and depth. Characteristic of Xiaguan teas are its clear structure, distinctive smokiness, and a powerful yet balanced style. A very successful mid-aged Sheng with a pronounced character.

Product details

Brand: Xiaguan (下关)
Tea type: Pu-Erh Sheng (生茶, raw Pu-Erh)
Form: Tuocha (沱茶)
Year of birth: 2012
Raw material: Yunnan big leaf tea (晒青毛茶)
Origin: Yunnan, China
Producer: Yunnan Xiaguan Tea Factory
Weight: 100 g

Packaging unit: 100 g / Tuo
Shelf life: Can be stored long-term if stored properly.

Character & Style

The tea is firmly and cleanly pressed, with a uniform, cup-shaped form and a clearly visible press mark. The dry leaf displays a dark green, slightly glossy color with silvery buds.
The fragrance features subtle, typical Xiaguan smoky notes.

The infusion is orange-yellow and clear, the aroma intense and clean. On the palate, the tea is full-bodied, powerful, and harmonious, with a dense texture and a quick, lingering finish of sweetness. The balance between smokiness, sweetness, and structure is very well achieved. It has a long aftertaste, good depth, and high yield over many infusions. A tea that clearly reflects the classic Xiaguan style.

Classification

Te Tuo is one of Xiaguan's most renowned Tuocha styles. The 2012 vintage is currently in an attractive mid-maturity stage: already very drinkable, yet with further development potential. Particularly suitable for lovers of traditional Xiaguan shengs with a smoky character.

storage

Store in a dry, well-ventilated place, protected from light and free from foreign odors.
Still has a good shelf life.

Recommendation before drinking

It is recommended to break up the tea upon receipt and let it "breathe" for about 2 weeks so that it can better adapt to oxygen and its aroma profile can develop more harmoniously.

Preparation instructions

Suitable for gaiwan or pu-erh pot.
Recommendation:
– 6–7 g of tea
– Water: 95–100 °C
– Short initial infusions, then extend to taste