"33201" is a bespoke creation that embodies the expertise and vision of Mr. Deng Guo, a distinguished tea expert. This tea, with its roots in the Bu Lang Mountain, is a testament to the artistry and tradition of tea blending and production.
Crafted primarily from arbor tree tea materials, this tea features long and strong threads, a sign of the high-quality leaves used in its making. The careful selection and processing of these leaves are evident in the tea's physical appearance, showcasing the skill and attention to detail that went into its creation.
This color is complemented by the tea's clarity and brightness, characteristics that are highly prized and suggestive of a well-crafted tea.
This tea was produced by the Meng Hai Tea Factory following Mr. Deng's specific order and recipe, making it a unique and exclusive offering in the world of tea.
In summary, this tea is a remarkable blend that reflects the expertise of Mr. Deng Guo and the rich tea tradition of the Meng Hai Tea Factory.
Tea Profile
At a glance: 2003 · Sheng (raw) puerh · 357g cake · LiMing Tea Factory
Upon brewing, the tea reveals a soup that is orange in color, a hue that is both inviting and indicative of its age and quality.
The flavor profile of this tea is rich and multi-dimensional. It possesses a smoky flavor, a signature trait that adds depth and complexity to the overall tasting experience. This smokiness is balanced by a mellow and refreshing quality, making the tea both invigorating and soothing.
A defining feature of this tea is its hui gan, or returning sweetness. This delightful sweetness emerges after the initial smoky and mellow notes, adding a layer of complexity and making each sip a journey of flavors.
The tea is also notable for its ability to stimulate saliva production, enhancing the drinking experience. Its smooth texture further adds to its appeal, making it a pleasure to drink and savor.
The 2003 LiMing "33201 Meng Hai Zao Chun Qiao Mu" Cake is a custom blend inspired by the 2003 ‘Huang Da Yi’ (Yellow Dayi), known for its distinct smoky flavor and robust taste.
Its long and strong threads, orange tea soup, smoky and mellow flavor, delightful hui gan, and smooth texture, all enhanced by natural storage in Guangzhou, make it a must-try for tea enthusiasts and a distinguished addition to any tea collection.
Best for: improving your tea experience. Take your time with it — a good choice once you are no longer a newcomer.
Brewing Guide
Water: rolling boil, 100°C (212°F).
- Rinse teaware with hot water; use roughly 5g of tea for each 100ml of vessel.
- Give the leaves one quick rinse, then cover and rest about 10 minutes to wake them up.
- Begin with 10–15 second steeps, lengthening each by about 5 seconds.
- Decant fully into a sharing pitcher each time.
- Enjoy — good sheng keeps giving for many infusions.
Use this as a starting point, not a fixed formula. Play with pour height and speed, and notice how the tea answers in different weather and seasons. Learning to brew one tea well anywhere, anytime is the real craft.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place with gentle airflow, out of direct light and away from strong smells such as cooking spices or smoke. If you plan to age it for years, breathable paper or clay storage suits puerh better than airtight plastic.
This tea has been stored naturally in Guangzhou, a factor that has significantly contributed to its development. The natural storage conditions have allowed the tea's flavors to evolve harmoniously, enhancing its aged characteristics and overall profile.
A Note on Appearance
Not every cake shows these, but they can occur, especially in teas with more years of storage.
- Bamboo powder (zhu fen): a natural sign of traditional bamboo-husk packing. In Guangdong's warm, humid climate, tiny bamboo insects can make their home in the husk, nibbling the husk and cotton paper wrapper while leaving the tea itself untouched. What they leave behind is a fine powder, seen only on certain teas and more often on aged ones. It is harmless to hygiene; a few strokes with a clean toothbrush or soft brush before brewing is all it takes.
- Tea oil spots: yellowish spots may appear and can come from natural tea oils. They are not a flaw.
- Torn wrapper: small tears or holes in the cotton paper may happen during storage and handling. The tea inside is unaffected.
