Description:
The 2012 XiaGuan "Jin Si" (Golden Ribbon) Tuo is a premium Sheng Cha (raw Puerh) tea from the esteemed XiaGuan Tea Factory. The "Golden Ribbon" series began in 2003, primarily using 3rd grade tea materials from the big tree tea leaves of Wu Liang Mountain and Bu Lang Mountain. This series is known for its high quality and distinctive characteristics.
Appearance:
The "Jin Si" Tuo weighs 100g and is tightly compressed into a nest-like shape (tuo). The tea leaves are neatly arranged with abundant tea hairs, indicating careful selection and processing. The overall appearance is tight and neat, showcasing the craftsmanship of XiaGuan.
Taste:
- Refreshing Sweetness: The tea provides a refreshing sweetness with minor bitterness and astringency, creating a well-balanced flavor profile.
- Fragrant and Smooth: The tea is noted for its fragrant aroma and smooth texture, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
- Soothing and Relaxing: The flavor is soothing and relaxing, with a slight smoky undertone that adds depth and complexity.
- Good HuiGan: The tea offers a pleasant HuiGan (returning sweetness) and stimulates saliva production, indicative of its richness and quality.
Storage:
The "Jin Si" Tuo has been stored naturally in Guangzhou, a region known for its humid and warm climate. This natural storage environment is conducive to the aging process of Puerh tea, allowing it to develop its unique flavors and characteristics over time.
Sub-series Information:
The "Golden Ribbon" series has two sub-series: the "Shang Pin" (Premium) version and the general version.
- Premium Version: Uses 2nd grade tea materials from big tree leaves in the Ban Na tea region. It is known for being mellower and thicker than the general version, with medium-level bitterness and astringency. The Premium version also offers a fast-coming HuiGan and is good at stimulating saliva production, resulting in a stronger taste profile.
- General Version: Uses 3rd grade tea materials and is known for its balanced flavor and smooth texture.
Origin:
Initially, the "Golden Ribbon" series was created for Guangzhou Xin Ye Tea Company, aiming to produce a higher-level tea than the existing "Red Ribbon." The distinguishing golden ribbon placed into the tuo (nest) serves as a mark of this series' quality and distinction.
Summary:
The 2012 XiaGuan "Jin Si" (Golden Ribbon) Tuo is a premium raw Puerh tea that reflects XiaGuan Tea Factory's commitment to quality and tradition. With its refreshing sweetness, minor bitterness, smooth texture, and slight smoky flavor, this tea offers a soothing and enjoyable drinking experience. Its excellent HuiGan and saliva-producing properties further enhance its appeal. Stored naturally in Guangzhou, this tea is poised to develop even more complexity and depth over time. The "Jin Si" Tuo is a prized addition to any Puerh tea collection, embodying the excellence of XiaGuan's craftsmanship and the rich heritage of Puerh tea.