2013 Xiaguan "T8663" Shou / Ripe Puerh Full Bing Cake

The Xiaguan Tea Factory is one of the oldest in China. They are located at the foothills of the Himalayas on the edge of the Xiaguan mountain range in Dali, Yunnan, China. The factory is uniquely situated to channel the strong winds that travel down these mountains. They claim that it is these winds that give their puerh its special taste.

This shou puerh is a classic blend and very popular in China. The "T" designation implies that it was heavily compressed and is called an "Iron Cake". Layered aromas and flavors present a complex experience with notes of earth, minerals, and a pleasing mustiness all balanced with a sweet aftertaste.

Xiaguan uses leaves sourced from many tea gardens in Yunnan. These leaves represent multiple years. Their blend is proprietary and a secret. These leaves are a good balance of different grades with some very large leaves, small twigs, and also smaller buds.