2014 XiaGuan "FT8623" Iron Cake 357g Puerh Sheng Cha Raw Tea

The 2014 XiaGuan "FT8623" Iron Cake is a 357g Puerh Sheng Cha (Raw Tea) celebrated for its quality and unique characteristics. Here's an overview:

Characteristics:

1. Leaf Composition:

   • Crafted from a blend of high-quality raw Puerh leaves, carefully selected to ensure a balanced and flavorful brew.
   • The leaves may feature a combination of buds, young leaves, and mature leaves, contributing to a diverse flavor profile.

2. Appearance:

   • The tea cake is typically well-compressed into an iron cake shape, featuring a solid structure that allows for gradual aging and flavor development.
   • The surface may have a dark, glossy appearance, indicating proper processing and storage.

3. Aroma:

   • Expect a complex aroma with floral, earthy, and sometimes fruity notes, intensifying upon steeping to fill the air with its captivating fragrance.

4. Flavor Profile:

   • Upon brewing, the tea reveals a rich and layered flavor profile, with notes of honey, wood, and subtle floral undertones.
   • The tea liquor is likely to have a robust body and a pleasant astringency, characteristic of young Sheng Puerh.
   • With proper aging, the tea can develop deeper complexities and smoother textures, enhancing its overall drinking experience.

Aging Potential:

• Designed to age gracefully over time, allowing its flavors to mature and evolve into a more prized brew.
• Stored in a cool, dry environment with proper ventilation, it can develop greater depth and richness, becoming more valuable with age.

Brewing Tips:

1. Water Temperature:

   • Use boiling water at 100°C (212°F) to fully extract the flavors and aromas of the tea, ensuring a rich and robust infusion.

2. Tea to Water Ratio:

   • Start with approximately 5 grams of tea per 150ml of water, adjusting according to personal preference.

3. Steeping Time:

   • Perform an initial rinse of the tea leaves with hot water to awaken them and remove any impurities.
   • Steep the tea for about 10-15 seconds for the first infusion, gradually increasing the steeping time with each subsequent infusion.

4. Infusions:

   • The "FT8623" Iron Cake can be steeped multiple times, offering 6-8 infusions or more, with the flavor profile evolving with each infusion.

Summary:

The 2014 XiaGuan "FT8623" Iron Cake is a testament to the artistry and tradition of Puerh tea-making, offering a delightful drinking experience with its complex flavors, inviting aroma, and solid structure. Whether enjoyed now or aged for future enjoyment, this tea promises to captivate enthusiasts with its rich character and nuanced profile. With proper brewing and storage, it is sure to become a cherished addition to any tea collection, providing endless moments of enjoyment and discovery.