2014 XiaGuan "7653" Cake 357g Puerh Sheng Cha Raw Tea

The 2014 XiaGuan "7653" Cake is a 357g Puerh Sheng Cha (Raw Tea) known for its distinctive qualities and traditional craftsmanship. Here’s a detailed overview:

Characteristics:

1. Blend and Recipe:

   • The "7653" designation indicates a specific recipe from the XiaGuan Tea Factory, which is known for its consistent quality and adherence to traditional methods.
   • This cake is crafted from a blend of leaves, providing a balanced flavor profile.

2. Aging Potential:

   • As a Sheng Puerh, this tea is designed to improve with age, developing greater complexity and smoothness over time.
   • Stored correctly, it can age for decades, gaining depth and richness.

Tasting Notes:

1. Flavor:

   • Initial infusions are often strong and astringent, with pronounced bitterness that mellows into sweetness.
   • Notes of fresh hay, green wood, and floral undertones are typical.
   • As it ages, the tea develops deeper, more mellow flavors with hints of honey and dried fruit.

2. Aroma:

   • A vibrant and fresh aroma with floral and grassy notes.
   • Young Sheng Puerh typically has a sharp, clean scent that becomes more complex as it matures.

3. Mouthfeel:

   • The tea offers a thick, substantial mouthfeel.
   • Astringency is present, contributing to the tea’s refreshing quality.
   • The aftertaste is long-lasting and often sweetens as the tea opens up through multiple infusions.

Storage:

• Natural Storage:
  • Ideal storage conditions include a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
  • Avoid direct sunlight, strong odors, and fluctuating temperatures to ensure optimal aging.

Brewing Tips:

1. Water Temperature:

   • Use water at 100°C (212°F) to preserve the delicate flavors and prevent excessive bitterness.

2. Tea to Water Ratio:

   • Use about 5 grams of tea per 150ml of water, adjusting based on personal preference.

3. Steeping Time:

   • Initial rinse for 5-10 seconds to wake up the leaves.
   • First infusion: 10-15 seconds.
   • Subsequent infusions: Gradually increase the steeping time by 5-10 seconds with each infusion.

4. Infusions:

   • The tea can be steeped multiple times, often providing 8-10 good infusions, with the flavor profile evolving throughout.

Summary:

The 2014 XiaGuan "7653" Cake is a high-quality Sheng Puerh that offers a robust and evolving flavor profile. Initially strong and astringent, the tea mellows with each infusion, revealing layers of complexity and a sweet aftertaste. Proper storage and mindful brewing are essential to fully appreciate this tea's potential. As it ages, the "7653" will develop more nuanced flavors, making it a valuable addition to any Puerh enthusiast's collection.