Overview:
- Year: 2005
- Type: Puerh Sheng Cha (Raw Tea)
- Weight: 357g
- Shape: Cake
- Storage: Guangzhou Natural Storage
Description: The 2005 XiaGuan "Jia Ji" (1st Grade) Cake is a prime example of top-tier Sheng Puerh tea, reflecting XiaGuan's dedication to quality and tradition. This cake, part of a series that has been cherished since the mid-20th century, is noted for its superior-grade tea materials and meticulous craftsmanship.
Tea Composition:
- Materials: High-grade tea leaves featuring a high ratio of young buds and tiny leaves. These selections ensure a refined and delicate flavor profile.
- Appearance: The cake is tightly compressed, which is beneficial for its aging process. The leaves are tightly woven, indicating the quality and care taken during production.
Taste Profile:
- Aroma: The tea has a slight smoky aroma that is characteristic of traditional XiaGuan puerh, combined with a fresh, sweet scent.
- Liquor: The infusion yields a clear, bright tea liquor, a sign of its quality and proper storage.
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Flavor:
- Sweetness: A noticeable sweetness that balances well with other flavors.
- Bitterness and Astringency: Medium to minor levels of bitterness and astringency, providing complexity without overwhelming the palate.
- Huigan (Returning Sweetness): Pronounced Huigan, which enhances the aftertaste and overall enjoyment of the tea.
- Smoothness: The tea is smooth and mellow, offering a rich and satisfying mouthfeel.
- Lingering Flavor: The flavor lingers pleasantly in the mouth, indicating a high-quality tea.
Aging and Storage:
- The tightly compressed nature of the cake aids in the aging process, allowing the tea to develop its flavors slowly over time.
- Storage Conditions: The tea has been stored naturally in Guangzhou, contributing to its maturation and the deepening of its flavors.
Historical Background:
- The "Jia Ji" series has a rich history, dating back to the mid-20th century. It is renowned for using superior-grade tea materials, a hallmark of its quality.
- This tea series is celebrated for its traditional blending techniques and careful craftsmanship, making it a favorite among puerh tea connoisseurs.
Recommendation: The 2005 XiaGuan "Jia Ji" (1st Grade) Cake is an excellent choice for both experienced puerh enthusiasts and those new to high-quality Sheng Puerh. Its balanced flavor profile, refined taste, and significant aging potential make it a valuable addition to any tea collection. This tea is perfect for those who appreciate the subtleties and complexities of traditional puerh, offering a delightful and enriching drinking experience that speaks to the rich heritage of XiaGuan's tea-making expertise.