The 2016 ChenShengHao "Lao Ban Zhang" Cake is a 357g Puerh Raw Tea (Sheng Cha) and is part of the "Lao Ban Zhang" series, which began in 2008. This series is characterized by its variation in cake style, brick, and weight. Here are the key characteristics of this tea:
Tea Origin and Quality:
- Origin: The tea leaves are sourced from high-quality trees in the Lao Ban Zhang village. ChenShengHao ensures quality by purchasing fresh leaves directly from farmers and processing them in their own factory.
- Appearance: The whole cake is round and thick, with a visually appealing color and neatness.
- Tea Threads: The tea threads are strong and tight, with multiple tea hairs, contributing to its overall quality and appearance.
Aroma and Taste:
- Freshness: When the tea is new, it exhibits a floral and fruity aroma, indicative of its high-quality leaves.
- Tea Liquor: The liquor has a clear color with brightness, reflecting its freshness and quality.
- Texture: The tea water is thick and oily, offering a smooth drinking experience.
- Flavor: It has a natural tea flavor with refreshing taste and strength, with medium to low levels of bitterness and astringency.
Misconceptions:
- Bitterness and Astringency: Contrary to common misconceptions, authentic Lao Ban Zhang tea is sweeter than expected, resembling sugar cane mixed with honey. Bitterness and astringency are generally at medium to low levels.
- Cha Qi: The tea is known for its strong Cha Qi, contributing to a lingering mouthfeel and inner body sensations.
Storage and Market:
- Storage: The tea has been stored naturally in Guangzhou, allowing it to mature and develop its flavors over time.
- Market History: ChenShengHao signed a long-term contract with Lao Ban Zhang village in 2008, amidst the aftermath of the "Puerh Tea Market Bubble Burst." Since then, the price of Lao Ban Zhang tea has risen dramatically due to its limited production and high demand.
Quality Assurance:
- ChenShengHao emphasizes that their "Lao Ban Zhang" tea is made specifically from leaves of big trees aged around 100 to 300 years. They maintain strict standards regarding tree age, distinguishing between old tree leaves and younger arbor trees to ensure quality consistency.
The 2016 ChenShengHao "Lao Ban Zhang" Cake offers a premium Puerh tea experience with its high-quality leaves, complex flavors, and strong Cha Qi, making it a sought-after choice among tea enthusiasts despite its rising market prices.