The 2017 XiaGuan "Bao Yan Zhuan Cha" is a raw (sheng) Puerh tea brick known for its rich history and distinctive flavor profile. This tea is part of the renowned "Bao Yan" series, which has a legacy of being highly appreciated in Tibet and western provinces of China.
Taste Profile:
- Appearance: The brick is tightly compressed, showcasing a high ratio of young buds and tiny leaves covered with tea hairs. The pressing is quite hard, ensuring the tea maintains its shape and ages well.
- Aroma: The dry leaves have a smoky aroma combined with the original fragrance of the tea and aged characteristics, typical of XiaGuan's traditional style.
- Liquor: Upon brewing, the tea liquor is clear with a bright yellow hue, indicating good quality and proper storage.
- Flavor: The tea presents a rich, smooth, and sweet flavor with minor bitterness and astringency. The smoky flavor is prominent but well-balanced by the tea's natural sweetness and aged notes.
- Mouthfeel: The tea is smooth and rich in the mouth, with a good huigan (returning sweetness) and saliva-producing effect. The aftertaste lingers pleasantly, leaving a lasting impression of the tea's complex flavor profile.
- Overall: This Puerh is well-suited for those who appreciate a balanced sheng Puerh with a mix of smoky, sweet, and slightly astringent notes.
Storage:
- Guangzhou Natural Storage: The tea has been stored naturally in Guangzhou, benefiting from the region's climate, which is conducive to the aging of Puerh tea. This storage method has enhanced the tea's flavors and contributed to its smooth and rich profile.
Summary:
The 2017 XiaGuan "Bao Yan Zhuan Cha" Brick is a high-quality sheng Puerh that embodies the traditional qualities of XiaGuan's production. With its rich history and well-balanced flavor profile, it is a great choice for Puerh enthusiasts seeking a tea with a good mix of smokiness, sweetness, and smoothness. The natural storage in Guangzhou has allowed the tea to mature gracefully, making it a valuable addition to any tea collection.