Overview:
- Year: 2003
- Type: Puerh Sheng Cha (Raw Tea)
- Weight: 100g
- Series: Te Ji (Special Grade - Red Eye Version)
Description: The 2003 XiaGuan "Te Ji" (Special Grade - Red Eye Version) Tuo is a high-quality Puerh Raw Tea. This series was launched in 2003 with the intention of surpassing the quality of the JiaJi Tuo Cha. "Te Ji," meaning "Special Grade," is crafted from superior tea materials compared to JiaJi, earning it the market nickname "TeTuo." In 2016, the series was officially renamed "TeTuo," an abbreviation of "TeJiTuoCha."
Packaging and Trademark:
- Trademark: Unique "Pine tree and Crane" symbol on the wrapper.
- Red Eye Version: Recognized for its distinctive crane and superior quality, reflected in its higher pricing.
- Packaging Options: Available in various packaging styles, including simple wrappers and paper boxes, with weights of 100g and 250g.
Taste Profile:
- Aroma: More fragrant aroma compared to JiaJi Tuo Cha.
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Flavor:
- Astringency: Higher astringency due to superior grade tea materials.
- Bitterness: Notable bitterness and a high level of smokiness.
- Initial Sessions: Marked by an abundant mouthfeel and fragrant aroma.
- HuiGan (Returning Sweetness): Rapidly emerging, balancing the initial bitterness.
- ShengJin (Saliva Production): Occurs quickly, enhancing the drinking experience.
- Evolution: Since 2011, the series has evolved to exhibit lighter smoke and bitterness, making it more approachable for general consumers and those new to Puerh tea.
Storage:
- Guangzhou Natural Storage: This tea has been naturally stored in Guangzhou, allowing for the gradual and favorable development of its complex flavors and aromas over time.
Background: The "Te Ji" series is a testament to XiaGuan's commitment to innovation and quality, offering a unique and enriched tea experience that appeals to both seasoned connoisseurs and newcomers to Puerh tea.
Grade Comparison:
- "Te Tuo" (特沱): Special grade Tuo Cha made from high-quality tea leaves, rich in tiny buds and young leaves.
- "Jia Tuo" (甲沱): First-grade Tuo Cha known for its 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.
Summary
The 2003 XiaGuan "Te Ji" (Special Grade - Red Eye Version) Tuo is an exquisite Puerh tea, offering a robust and complex flavor profile marked by higher astringency, notable bitterness, and smokiness. Its evolution over time to a lighter smoke and bitterness makes it accessible to a broader range of tea drinkers. This tea stands as a symbol of XiaGuan's dedication to producing high-quality Puerh tea, making it an excellent choice for both experienced tea enthusiasts and those new to Puerh tea.