Overview:
- Year: 2004
- Type: Puerh Sheng Cha (Raw Tea)
- Weight: 100g
- Series: Te Ji (Special Grade)
Description: The 2004 XiaGuan "Te Ji" Tuo is a premium offering in the XiaGuan lineup, initiated in 2003 to surpass the JiaJi tuo cha in quality. The name "Te Ji," which translates to "Special Grade," signifies its superior grade of tea materials. This series is renowned in the market as "TeTuo" and was officially abbreviated to “特沱” in 2016.
Packaging and Design:
- Trademark: The tea is distinguished by a trademark featuring a "Pine tree and Crane" on the wrapper, symbols of longevity and quality in Chinese culture.
- Variations: Available in various packaging styles including simple wrappers and paper boxes, and in different weights, such as 100g and 250g.
Taste Profile:
- Flavor: The use of higher-grade tea materials results in a pronounced astringency compared to the JiaJi tuo cha.
- Aroma: Opens with a fragrant aroma that enhances the tea session.
- Mouthfeel: Rich and robust mouthfeel, especially noticeable in the initial infusions.
- Bitterness and Smokiness: Exhibits a strong bitterness and smokiness, hallmark characteristics of this series. Both HuiGan (returning sweetness) and ShengJin (saliva production) are swift, enriching the drinking experience.
- Evolving Profile: Since 2011, the flavor profile has been adjusted to reduce smokiness and bitterness, making it more approachable for a wider audience, including those new to Puerh tea.
Storage:
- Guangzhou Natural Storage: The natural storage conditions in Guangzhou contribute to the tea's aging process, enhancing its flavor and complexity over time.
Background:
- Te Tuo (特沱): Special grade Tuo Cha made from high-quality leaves, rich in tiny buds and young leaves.
- Jia Tuo (甲沱): First-grade Tuo Cha, known for a higher ratio of young and large leaves.
- Yi Ji Tuo Cha (乙级沱茶): Second-grade Tuo Cha, characterized by a high ratio of large and strong leaves.
- Bing Ji Tuo Cha (丙级沱茶): Third-grade Tuo Cha, made from a mix of strong leaves and stems.
- Da Zhong Tuo Cha (大众沱茶): Fourth-grade Tuo Cha, known for its rougher leaves and stems.
Conclusion: The 2004 XiaGuan "Te Ji" Tuo is a standout choice for Puerh tea enthusiasts seeking a high-quality, robust tea. Its distinguished packaging and superior tea materials make it a notable offering in the XiaGuan range. The tea's rich flavor profile, characterized by its pronounced bitterness, smokiness, and swift returning sweetness, provides a memorable and satisfying tea experience. Over the years, the series has evolved to appeal to a broader audience, maintaining its status as a premium and highly regarded Puerh tea.