Overview:
- Year: 2005
- Type: Puerh Sheng Cha (Raw Tea)
- Weight: 100g
- Shape: Tuo (Nest/Bowl)
- Storage: Guangzhou Natural Storage
Description: The 2005 XiaGuan "Jin Si" (Golden Ribbon) Tuo is a distinguished member of the "Golden Ribbon" series, which started in 2003. This series is celebrated for its use of high-quality tea materials, primarily 3rd grade big tree leaves from Wu Liang and Bu Lang mountains.
Tea Composition:
- Materials: Made from 3rd grade tea materials sourced from big tree leaves, ensuring a robust and nuanced flavor profile.
- Appearance: The tea threads are tight and neat, adorned with multiple tea hairs, presenting an impressive and appealing look.
Taste Profile:
- Aroma: The tea exudes a fragrant aroma that is both smooth and inviting.
- Liquor: The brew is clear and bright, showcasing the purity and quality of the tea leaves.
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Flavor:
- Sweetness: Offers a refreshing sweetness that is well-balanced and not overpowering.
- Bitterness and Astringency: Contains minor levels of bitterness and astringency, adding depth and complexity without overwhelming the palate.
- Huigan (Returning Sweetness): Excellent at producing Huigan, enhancing the aftertaste and overall tasting experience.
- Smoothness: The tea is notably smooth, providing a soothing and relaxing drinking experience.
- Smoky Flavor: A slight smoky flavor is present, adding an extra layer of interest to the taste profile.
- Mouthfeel: Soothing and relaxing, promoting a calm and pleasant experience.
Aging and Storage:
- Natural Storage: Stored naturally in Guangzhou, the tea has aged gracefully, developing a more refined and mature taste over time.
Historical Background:
- The "Golden Ribbon" series was introduced in 2003, initially made to order for the Guangzhou Xin Ye tea company. The aim was to create a higher-level tea compared to the already established "Red Ribbon" series, signified by placing a golden ribbon inside the tuo as a mark of distinction.
- Sub-Series: The "Golden Ribbon" series includes two sub-series: "Shang Pin" (Premium) and the general version. The Premium version uses 2nd grade tea materials from big tree leaves in the Ban Na tea region, offering a mellower and thicker taste with medium-level bitterness and astringency, fast-coming Huigan, and stronger taste.
Recommendation: The 2005 XiaGuan "Jin Si" (Golden Ribbon) Tuo is an excellent choice for Puerh enthusiasts seeking a high-quality, well-balanced Sheng Cha. Its refreshing sweetness, minor bitterness, smooth mouthfeel, and slight smoky flavor make it a versatile tea suitable for both casual and more discerning tea drinkers. Whether enjoyed daily or reserved for special occasions, this tea provides a satisfying and enriching experience reflective of XiaGuan's craftsmanship and dedication to quality.