This classic 250g puerh tea brick from the 1990s by the renowned Xiaguan Tea Factory is available in two unique versions: the “Chang Chang Version” and the “Duan Chang Version.”
• Chang Chang Version: Also known as the “Long Chang Word Version,” in which the Chinese character “厂” is of standard length.
• Duan Chang Version: Known as the “Short Chang Word Version,” where the horizontal line (一) in the character “厂” is slightly shortened.
Although it’s challenging to distinguish the taste differences between the two versions in blind tastings, many enthusiasts believe that the “Duan Chang Version” offers a marginally richer profile, leading to a premium in the wholesale market. We offer samples of both versions to allow for a direct comparison.
Overview
• Era: 1990s
• Type: Puerh Ripe Tea (Shou Cha)
• Weight: 250g
• Factory: Xiaguan Tea Factory
Heritage: This puerh brick captures the spirit of Xiaguan’s expertise in crafting shou puerh, known for its pioneering fermentation techniques that allow puerh tea to age gracefully and develop layered flavors over time.
Uniqueness: This tea’s light fermentation sets it apart, offering two benefits:
• Aging Potential: The lighter fermentation allows the tea to mature naturally, enhancing its complexity with each passing year.
• Enhanced Flavor: This approach brings out a heightened Huigan (returning sweetness) and improves saliva production, enhancing the aftertaste and lingering finish.
Visual Appeal
When brewed, the tea’s liquor shines with a bright clarity, a testament to the meticulous selection and quality of leaves used in this brick.
Aromatic Journey
The tea’s aroma is an elegant mix of woodsy notes with a touch of camphor, offering an enticing prelude to the depth of flavor within each infusion.
Taste Profile
• First Sip: The initial taste is smooth and mellow, embodying the balanced depth achieved through Xiaguan’s expert fermentation and natural aging.
• Harmony: Each sip delivers a satisfying blend of complex, subtle flavors and a soothing, mellow profile.
Storage
Stored naturally in Guangzhou, this tea has aged to develop a rich character, enhancing its smoothness and complexity over decades.
Conclusion
The 90’s Xiaguan “Pu Er Cha Zhuan” is more than a tea—it is a testament to the rich legacy of Xiaguan’s craftsmanship. Its unique fermentation process and aging potential make it a prized choice for both experienced puerh aficionados and newcomers to shou cha. Each sip invites you into a journey of mellow, smooth, and richly aromatic experience, perfected by years of precision and care.