The 2014 XiaGuan "Bao Yan Jin Cha" Brick is a 250g Puerh Sheng Cha (Raw Tea) renowned for its quality and historical significance. Here’s a detailed overview:
Characteristics:
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Composition:
- High ratio of young buds and tiny leaves with abundant tea hairs, indicating a high-quality leaf selection.
- The brick is pressed quite hard, which is typical for XiaGuan Puerh bricks.
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Appearance and Liquor:
- Clear tea liquor color with brightness, suggesting a well-processed tea.
- Smoky flavor combined with the original fragrance of the tea and aged characteristics.
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Flavor Profile:
- Rich, smooth, and sweet taste with minor bitterness and astringency.
- Good huigan (回甘), meaning a returning sweetness after drinking.
- Promotes saliva production, which is a sign of good quality Sheng Puerh.
- Lingering tea flavor from aftertastes, making it a complex and enjoyable brew.
Storage:
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Guangzhou Natural Storage:
- The tea has been stored naturally in Guangzhou, a region known for its humid and warm climate.
- These conditions are ideal for aging Puerh tea, contributing to its smoothness and rich flavor.
Historical Context:
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"Bao Yan" (Fire) Series:
- This series started around the mid-20th century, with tea grade higher than the "Bian Xiao" series.
- Initially targeted at consumers in Tibet, western Sichuan, and Yunnan provinces.
- Officially registered as a brand in the late 1990s, but not produced annually and experienced periods of halted production.
- In 2003, Fei Tai tea company revived the series with an updated recipe and improved quality to cater to the modern market.
Brewing Tips:
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Water Temperature:
- Use water at 100°C (212°F) to fully extract the flavors and complexities of the tea.
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Tea to Water Ratio:
- Use about 5 grams of tea per 150ml of water, adjusting to personal preference.
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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.
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Infusions:
- This tea can be steeped multiple times, often providing 8-10 infusions, with the flavor profile evolving throughout.
Summary:
The 2014 XiaGuan "Bao Yan Jin Cha" Brick is a high-quality Sheng Puerh known for its rich and smooth taste with a smoky flavor. Its historical significance and careful storage contribute to its unique character and appeal. Proper brewing with water at 100°C (212°F) will bring out its complex flavors and delightful aftertastes, making it a prized choice for Puerh enthusiasts. The tea's rich history and quality make it a valuable addition to any tea collection, offering both an enjoyable drinking experience and a piece of tea heritage.