The 2008 ChenShengHao "Lao Ban Zhang" Cake epitomizes the essence of this renowned tea series, capturing the unique characteristics of the Lao Ban Zhang village and the exceptional quality of its tea leaves. Here's a comprehensive overview of this esteemed tea:
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Tea Leaves: Carefully selected from big trees flourishing in the tea plantations of Lao Ban Zhang village, the tea leaves used in this cake are of the highest quality. They are meticulously processed in CSH's own factory to ensure optimal freshness and quality retention. The cake itself is noted for its round and thick shape, indicative of the craftsmanship and attention to detail in its production.
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Appearance: The cake presents a visually appealing appearance, characterized by relative looseness and strong, tight tea threads adorned with multi tea hairs. Its color and neatness further attest to the meticulous care and precision involved in its creation.
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Aroma: Upon brewing, the tea releases a delightful bouquet of floral and fruity aromas, contributing to its overall sensory appeal and inviting exploration.
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Tea Liquor: The brewed tea yields a clear liquor with brightness, reflecting the purity and quality of the tea leaves. Its thick and oilish texture enhances the overall drinking experience, imparting a sense of smoothness and richness to the palate.
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Flavor Profile: The tea boasts a natural and refreshing flavor profile, characterized by a balanced interplay of sweetness and strength. While bitterness and astringency are present, they are notably subdued, falling within the medium to low range. This deviation from the general expectation underscores the unique attributes of Lao Ban Zhang tea and challenges common misconceptions regarding its taste profile.
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Aftertaste: One of the defining features of this tea is its fast-coming returning sweetness and the significant amount of saliva produced in the aftertaste. This characteristic, coupled with its good Cha Qi and lingering mouthfeel, contributes to a deeply satisfying tea-drinking experience.
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Storage: The tea has undergone natural storage in Guangzhou, a process that allows for gradual aging and refinement while preserving the integrity of its flavors. This storage method ensures that the tea maintains its quality and evolves gracefully over time.
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Historical Context: The tea's significance is further accentuated by its association with the aftermath of the "Puerh Tea Market Bubble Burst" in 2007. As one of the first products introduced by ChenShengHao following this event, the Lao Ban Zhang series symbolizes a new chapter in the company's journey and underscores its commitment to quality and authenticity.
In summary, the 2008 ChenShengHao "Lao Ban Zhang" Cake stands as a testament to the rich heritage and exceptional quality of Lao Ban Zhang tea. Its nuanced flavor profile, combined with its historical significance and meticulous craftsmanship, makes it a prized addition to any tea connoisseur's collection.