Introduction: The 2016 XiaGuan "Kang Zang Tie Bing" (Tibet Iron Cake) is a distinguished raw Puerh tea cake produced by the esteemed XiaGuan Tea Factory. Known for its dense compression and robust flavor profile, this tea is crafted to deliver a unique and memorable tea experience.
Origination:
- Tea Material: This cake is made using premium tea leaves from the high-altitude regions of Yunnan. The tea leaves are carefully selected to ensure a rich and complex flavor, representative of the region's unique terroir.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: The cake is tightly compressed, a hallmark of the "Iron Cake" style, making it very hard and durable. The tea leaves are tightly woven, showcasing a mix of dark green and silver tea hairs, indicative of high-quality raw Puerh.
- Tea Soup: The liquor is a bright golden-yellow, clear and radiant, reflecting the tea's purity and careful processing.
- Aroma: The tea presents a complex aroma with smoky undertones, characteristic of Tibetan raw Puerh, combined with subtle floral and earthy notes.
- Flavor: The flavor is bold and robust, with a balanced bitterness that quickly mellows into a smooth, sweet aftertaste. The tea offers a rich mouthfeel with layers of flavor that evolve over multiple infusions. Notes of dried fruit, honey, and a hint of smokiness are present, making each sip a dynamic experience.
- Aftertaste: The aftertaste is long-lasting and refreshing, with a prominent Huigan (returning sweetness) that enhances saliva production and leaves a pleasant sensation in the mouth.
Storage:
- Guangzhou Natural Storage: The tea has been stored naturally in Guangzhou, which provides optimal conditions for aging Puerh teas. This environment helps the tea to mature gracefully, developing more complex flavors over time.
Packaging:
- Format: The tea is compressed into a 357g cake, known for its dense and hard structure. The packaging is sturdy and designed to protect the tea, maintaining its quality and integrity during storage and transportation.
Conclusion: The 2016 XiaGuan "Kang Zang Tie Bing" (Tibet Iron Cake) is an exceptional raw Puerh tea that embodies the tradition and expertise of the XiaGuan Tea Factory. With its robust flavor profile, complex aroma, and excellent aging potential, this tea is a valuable addition to any Puerh tea collection. Whether enjoyed immediately or stored for future maturation, this tea offers a rich and rewarding experience for Puerh enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.