XiaGuan "Jia Ji" (1st Grade) Cake, a 357g Puerh Raw Tea (Sheng Cha), is a remarkable expression of a tea tradition dating back to the early 1950s. This tea is crafted using high-grade materials, predominantly consisting of buds and young leaves, following a blend recipe that originated around 1951.
Flavor Profile:
- Smoky: A distinct smoky essence that is both intriguing and traditional.
- Thick and Strong: A robust tea flavor that captivates with its intensity.
- Fragrant: A delightful aroma that enhances the overall tea experience.
- Huigan: A fast-emerging returning sweetness that lingers pleasantly after each sip.
- Apparent Bitterness: A clear bitterness that adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Slight or Minor Pungency: A subtle piquancy that complements the tea's complexity.
- Saliva Production: Stimulates saliva, enhancing the tasting experience.
Storage: This exquisite tea is stored naturally in Guangzhou, allowing it to mature gracefully and develop a rich, well-rounded character.
Packaging Variations: The "Jia Ji" series is available in different forms, including the paper tong package containing five separate 100g tuos and individual paper boxes, each with a 100g tuo. This particular cake version is a rarer format, offering a unique tea experience.
Background:
- "Te Tuo" (特沱): A special grade Tuo Cha made from high-quality tea leaves, rich in tiny buds and young leaves.
- "Jia Tuo" (甲沱): The first-grade Tuo Cha, known for its higher ratio of young and large leaves.
- "Yi Ji Tuo Cha" (乙级沱茶): The second-grade Tuo Cha, characterized by a high ratio of large and strong leaves.
- "Bing Ji Tuo Cha" (丙级沱茶): The third-grade Tuo Cha, made from a mix of strong leaves and stems.
- "Da Zhong Tuo Cha" (大众沱茶): The fourth-grade Tuo Cha, known for its rougher leaves and stems.
The 2006 XiaGuan "Jia Ji" Cake is an embodiment of a rich tea heritage, offering a depth of flavor and history in each cup.