The 2014 XiaGuan "7653" Cake is a 357g Puerh Sheng Cha (Raw Tea) known for its distinctive qualities and traditional craftsmanship. Here’s a detailed overview:
Characteristics:
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Blend and Recipe:
- The "7653" designation indicates a specific recipe from the XiaGuan Tea Factory, which is known for its consistent quality and adherence to traditional methods.
- This cake is crafted from a blend of leaves, providing a balanced flavor profile.
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Aging Potential:
- As a Sheng Puerh, this tea is designed to improve with age, developing greater complexity and smoothness over time.
- Stored correctly, it can age for decades, gaining depth and richness.
Tasting Notes:
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Flavor:
- Initial infusions are often strong and astringent, with pronounced bitterness that mellows into sweetness.
- Notes of fresh hay, green wood, and floral undertones are typical.
- As it ages, the tea develops deeper, more mellow flavors with hints of honey and dried fruit.
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Aroma:
- A vibrant and fresh aroma with floral and grassy notes.
- Young Sheng Puerh typically has a sharp, clean scent that becomes more complex as it matures.
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Mouthfeel:
- The tea offers a thick, substantial mouthfeel.
- Astringency is present, contributing to the tea’s refreshing quality.
- The aftertaste is long-lasting and often sweetens as the tea opens up through multiple infusions.
Storage:
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Natural Storage:
- Ideal storage conditions include a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
- Avoid direct sunlight, strong odors, and fluctuating temperatures to ensure optimal aging.
Brewing Tips:
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Water Temperature:
- Use water at 100°C (212°F) to preserve the delicate flavors and prevent excessive bitterness.
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Tea to Water Ratio:
- Use about 5 grams of tea per 150ml of water, adjusting based on 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:
- The tea can be steeped multiple times, often providing 8-10 good infusions, with the flavor profile evolving throughout.
Summary:
The 2014 XiaGuan "7653" Cake is a high-quality Sheng Puerh that offers a robust and evolving flavor profile. Initially strong and astringent, the tea mellows with each infusion, revealing layers of complexity and a sweet aftertaste. Proper storage and mindful brewing are essential to fully appreciate this tea's potential. As it ages, the "7653" will develop more nuanced flavors, making it a valuable addition to any Puerh enthusiast's collection.