ABOUT
Lao Cha Tou means "Old Tea Heads." During the production of Pu'er tea, when mao cha is fermented in piles, a crust resembling an owl forms around the edges and eventually breaks apart into what are known as "Pu'er lumps." In recent years, this product has become increasingly popular thanks to its distinct aroma and flavor, unique appearance, and mild effects on the body. It contains pectin, which is beneficial for the digestive system and aids in detoxification. Pectin is more effective than fiber in lowering blood cholesterol levels and eliminating bile acids.
ORIGIN
Ming Feng Shan is a small region located in Lincang, Southwest Yunnan, known for producing exceptional quality tea from ancient trees that thrive in the high mountains. Situated at an average altitude of around 2,100 meters above sea level, the tea trees in this area are between 350 and 500 years old. The combination of this perfect environment, 100% natural farming practices, and traditional handmade processing methods results in tea that receives top marks for its quality and aging potential. This noble tea boasts an original character, deep aroma, and rich flavor, with its Mao Cha sourced exclusively from ancient trees untouched by human intervention, contributing to a diverse genetic pool.
Tea from the Ming Feng Shan area is a prime example of authentic Pu'er, harvested from 350-500 year-old trees and crafted using time-honored techniques by local minority communities residing in the mountains. Our selection includes tea leaves available in pressed cakes of 200 grams or 357 grams, as well as convenient 8-gram balls.
This Shu (Ripe) Pu'er is made from exceptional raw materials, carefully harvested in early spring from aged trees. It is characterized by a smooth, deep flavor accompanied by a sweet, lingering aftertaste, along with a gentle yet noticeable "Cha Qi," a quality that is often elusive in Shu Pu'er. Pu'er from the Ming Feng Mountains consistently impresses with its high quality, complex profiles, and well-balanced taste.
ORGANOLEPTICS
When you first encounter the dry tea leaves, you're welcomed by a delicate blend of woody, nutty, and confectionery aromas. The brewing process and the way the leaves open up are unique, influenced by the special shape and density of the tea lumps. As they heat, the fragrance deepens, blossoming with notes of baked goods, caramel sweetness, milk, vanilla, and honey—a distinct and intriguing aroma that sets the stage for a delightful tea experience. After rinsing the leaves, the aroma evolves into inviting hints of aromatic wood, cream, citrus, and fruity undertones.
These tea heads can be steeped whole or crushed for a quicker infusion. The resulting brew yields a thick, rich dark amber color, accentuated with red hues. The flavor is smooth, sweet, and profound, with woody and nutty undertones that lead to a long, sweet finish. The taste is complex, revealing notes of prune, chocolate, and bread as it unfolds. It conjures images of a summer forest with its earthy aromas and evokes a spa-like atmosphere with its woody essence. A longer steep results in a deeper, coffee-like richness with chocolate bitterness, woody tannins, and a lingering sweet aftertaste, leaving a subtle freshness in the mouth. The tea boasts a notably thick, creamy texture, with hints of medicinal roots and mushrooms.
Interestingly, among Pu'er enthusiasts, there exists a tradition of brewing this tea over an open fire, allowing it to simmer for an extended period to achieve an even richer, more layered flavor. Despite its youthful nature, the tea presents a remarkably smooth taste, free from bitterness or astringency, and lacks the common notes associated with the production and storage of very young Shu Pu'er. This is a finished product with immense potential for aging, likely to grow even more intriguing over time. Lastly, I must highlight the serene, peaceful state this tea inspires. It is ideal for both morning self-reflection and evening relaxation, promoting a meditative ambiance.