Description:
Tea Type: Shou Cha (Ripe Puerh)
Weight: 250g Brick
Name: "Lao Cha Tou" (Old Tea Head) Brick
Year: 2011
Origination:
The "Lao Cha Tou" (Old Tea Head) is a distinctive product in the puerh tea world, emerging from the unique process of manual fermentation known as "Wo Dui." During this process, the pectin in the tea leaves, combined with pressure and high temperature within large piles, causes the formation of dense chunks. Historically, these chunks were considered unusable because they couldn't be torn apart easily. However, over time, it was discovered that these chunks possessed a unique and attractive flavor profile, characterized by higher sweetness and mellowness compared to general shou cha.
The term "Lao Cha Tou" translates to "Old Tea Head," with "Tou" indicating a chunk in Chinese. Additionally, "Cha Tou" also refers to the people responsible for making tea, adding a layer of cultural nuance to the name. DaYi, a renowned producer in the puerh tea industry, began incorporating "Lao Cha Tou" into their product lineup in 2006, recognizing its unique appeal and drinkability.
Tea Materials and Appearance:
The "Lao Cha Tou" bricks are composed of these naturally formed tea chunks, resulting from the manual fermentation process. These bricks are characterized by their dense and compact structure, which allows for slow and steady aging, enhancing the tea's depth and richness over time.
Taste Profile:
- Smooth and Thick: The tea provides a smooth and thick flavor, creating a satisfying and full-bodied mouthfeel.
- Richness and Depth: The taste is rich and layered, offering a complex profile that deepens with each infusion.
- Caramel Sweetness: One of the standout features of "Lao Cha Tou" is its caramel-like sweetness, which adds a delightful and mellow sweetness to the overall flavor.
- Aged Tea Flavor: The tea also carries the characteristic aged tea flavor, a hallmark of well-stored and matured shou cha, contributing to its unique and appealing taste.
Storage:
- Location: Guangzhou
- Conditions: This tea has been naturally stored in Guangzhou, a region known for its optimal conditions for aging puerh tea. The natural storage environment in Guangzhou helps maintain the tea's original fragrance and flavor while allowing it to mature and develop its distinctive characteristics over time.
Significance:
The 2011 DaYi "Lao Cha Tou" (Old Tea Head) Brick is a remarkable addition to any puerh tea collection. Its unique origin story, combined with its rich, smooth, and caramel-sweet flavor profile, makes it a standout choice for both seasoned tea enthusiasts and newcomers looking to explore the diverse world of puerh tea. This brick offers a delightful and sophisticated drinking experience, reflecting the traditional craftsmanship and innovative spirit of the Menghai Tea Factory. Whether enjoyed immediately or allowed to age further, this tea promises a rewarding and memorable experience.