Origin: The 2015 XiaGuan "Long Ma," which translates to "Spirit," is a 357g raw Puerh tea cake produced by the renowned XiaGuan Tea Factory. This tea embodies the spirit and energy of the dragon and horse, symbolizing strength and vitality.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: The tea cake is tightly compressed with neat and robust tea threads, showcasing the quality and careful selection of tea leaves.
- Aroma: The tea exhibits a fragrant aroma, typical of raw Puerh, with hints of floral and vegetal notes.
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Flavor Profile:
- Initial Taste: The tea offers a bold and robust flavor, with a balanced bitterness that is characteristic of high-quality raw Puerh.
- Body: The liquor is thick and rich, providing a full-bodied mouthfeel.
- Aftertaste: The bitterness quickly transforms into a pleasant sweetness, leaving a refreshing and lingering aftertaste. The huigan (returning sweetness) is pronounced and enjoyable.
- Complexity: The tea has layers of flavors that evolve with each steeping, including notes of floral, vegetal, and subtle smokiness.
- Tea Liquor: The liquor is clear and bright, indicating good quality and proper processing.
Storage:
- Location: Guangzhou natural storage
- Conditions: Stored under natural conditions in Guangzhou, which provides a humid and warm environment ideal for the aging of raw Puerh tea.
- Effect on Tea: These storage conditions help the tea to age gracefully, enhancing its complexity and depth over time.
Background: The "Long Ma" (Spirit) name reflects the dynamic and powerful nature of this tea, drawing inspiration from the mythical creatures dragon (Long) and horse (Ma). These symbols are often associated with energy, endurance, and vitality, mirroring the robust character of the tea.
Recommendation: The 2015 XiaGuan "Long Ma" (Spirit) Puerh Sheng Cha is an excellent choice for Puerh tea enthusiasts who appreciate a strong and complex raw Puerh. Its balanced bitterness, evolving flavors, and pleasant sweetness make it a delightful tea to enjoy now or to age further for enhanced depth and richness. Ideal for both daily consumption and special occasions, this tea captures the essence of XiaGuan's craftsmanship and the spirit of the dragon and horse.