{"title":"Sheng Puer","description":"\u003cp\u003eBright, vibrant tea that deepens with age. \u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"2011-taiji-yuan-cha","title":"2011 Taiji Yuan Cha","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"90\" data-end=\"331\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eDeng Shi Hai\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e is well known for his belief that puer tea improves with age. His teas are crafted with this philosophy in mind and are produced specifically for long-term aging, intended to evolve and deepen over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"333\" data-end=\"676\"\u003eThe material used for this cake comes from Fengqing County in Lincang Prefecture. Deng Shi Hai selected leaves from this region at a time when material from some of the more famous tea mountains was beginning to show the effects of overharvesting, choosing instead to work with tea that still reflected the vitality and strength of its origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"678\" data-end=\"1027\"\u003eThe flavor profile of this tea is complex and engaging, unfolding and shifting over the course of a session. The tea soup is satisfyingly thick and smooth, with a touch of bite. The aftertaste is pronounced and lingering, and the tea carries a strong energy, making it especially well suited for a focused, attentive session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1029\" data-end=\"1204\"\u003eThis tea has been stored in Taiwan and was acquired through a member of the \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eDeng Shi Hai Puer Research Institute\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e. Its authenticity as a Deng Shi Hai production is guaranteed. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1206\" data-end=\"1643\"\u003ePlease note that the wrappers on these cakes show evidence of insect activity, in some cases quite pronounced. This is not uncommon with naturally aged puer, as insects are often attracted to the paper wrappers rather than the tea itself. This cosmetic issue does not affect the quality of the tea. The cakes have aged very well and perform beautifully in the cup. Those who prefer pristine wrappers may wish to consider other offerings.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Full Cake 380g","offer_id":47844062888195,"sku":null,"price":225.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 25g","offer_id":47844062920963,"sku":null,"price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/11_taiji01.jpg?v=1773802690"},{"product_id":"2020-jifu-raw-puer-cake","title":"2020 Ji Fu","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe 2020 Jifu Raw Puer Cake is a lesser-known production from respected puer scholar and producer Deng Shi Hai. Like many of his teas, it was produced at the Dragon Spring Tea Factory using leaf material sourced from Fengqing County in Lincang Prefecture. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to the tea’s inner ticket, it was crafted in the style of teas from the hàojí era, blending material harvested in both spring and autumn. As puer scholar Wu De Liang notes, the hàojí period refers to the late Qing dynasty and early Republic era, lasting until 1949. Teas produced in this manner were traditionally intended for long-term aging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe name Jifu (亟福) may be translated roughly as “extremely blessed.” The wrapper also bears the phrase 典藏版, meaning “collector’s edition.” Based on its structure and character, the tea appears well suited for further aging and, in my view, is certainly one worth collecting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI am a big fan of tea from Lincang, especially when it is as lively as this one. In particular, I enjoy the gripping mouthfeel that I often associate with teas from this region. The Jifu is an engaging tea to drink, offering a compelling combination of aroma, flavor, texture, and cha qi throughout the session. It embodies many of the qualities I look for in a premium factory puer. Whether set aside for aging or enjoyed now, this is a tea I can confidently recommend.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Cake 380g","offer_id":47844574658819,"sku":null,"price":240.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 25g","offer_id":47844574691587,"sku":null,"price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/20_jifu01.jpg?v=1774932612"},{"product_id":"2004-xiaguan-special-grade-raw-puer-tuocha","title":"2004 Xiaguan Special Grade Tuocha","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"1186\" data-end=\"1542\"\u003eThe 2004 Special Grade Tuocha (round box version) from Xiaguan Tea Factory is an excellent example of how rewarding these small, tightly compressed teas can be when both production and storage are done well. While tuochas are often associated with rougher and more assertive profiles, this tea shows a level of refinement that many drinkers may not expect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1544\" data-end=\"1741\"\u003eThis tea has undergone Taiwan natural dry storage, with enough humidity to allow it to mature and soften some of its rougher edges while preserving its more delicate aromas and subtle flavor notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1743\" data-end=\"2026\"\u003eXiaguan Tea Factory produced two versions of the 2004 Special Grade Tuocha: one packaged in a round box and another in a paper bag. The round box version is generally considered to contain higher-grade leaf material than the paper bag version. This offering is the round box version.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2028\" data-end=\"2508\"\u003eIn the cup, the tea carries the pungent depth typical of Xiaguan tuochas, balanced by a smoothness that keeps the profile approachable and well-rounded rather than harsh. The characteristic smokiness associated with Xiaguan teas is present, accompanied by a pleasant resinous note. Both integrate nicely into the overall flavor, adding complexity without being overwhelming. The tea also carries a lively and uplifting cha qi, leaving the drinker feeling calm, clear, and focused.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2510\" data-end=\"2623\"\u003eAmong small tuochas, this is a particularly interesting and enjoyable example, and one I am pleased to recommend.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Tuo 100g","offer_id":47844606607619,"sku":null,"price":27.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 25g","offer_id":47844606640387,"sku":null,"price":8.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/04_xg_special01.jpg?v=1773749980"},{"product_id":"2003-menghai-tea-factory-bulang-jing-pin","title":"2003 Bulang Jing Pin","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis tea is a somewhat controversial production. It is often described as having been commissioned from Menghai Tea Factory as a special-order production, though the details surrounding its manufacture and packaging remain unclear. I am not claiming this to be an official Menghai Tea Factory production, nor can I verify its exact origin. Regardless of its precise provenance, the tea itself has aged well and displays a character that makes it worth offering.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis cake has been stored on the more humid side. In Taiwan, this type of storage is often referred to as ziran cang (自然倉), or “natural storage.” As seen in the liquor color, the tea brews a deep amber rather than the brighter orange typically associated with drier storage. Despite this, the tea is clean, with no off flavors. When done well, this style of storage allows the tea to age more quickly, softening rough edges while preserving much of the tea’s original character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe profile is distinctly Bulang, with flavors reminiscent of wood, leather, and tobacco, without any smokiness. The liquor is concentrated, with a firm body, strong aftertaste, and a pleasant returning sweetness. A cooling sensation develops on the breath, and the energy of the tea is deep and penetrating.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis tea is a good choice for those who enjoy the strong character of Bulang material, as well as for drinkers who prefer semi-aged puer with a darker, more developed profile.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Cake 380g","offer_id":47923616907523,"sku":null,"price":180.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 25g","offer_id":47923616940291,"sku":null,"price":14.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/03_mh_bulang01_c7da9ef6-27c6-4784-a6de-ca35946bc996.jpg?v=1773803034"},{"product_id":"2004-xinghai-tea-factory-lao-ban-zhang-ecological-tuocha","title":"2004 Xinghai Tea Factory Lao Ban Zhang Ecological Tuocha","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"664\" data-end=\"1019\"\u003eXinghai Tea Factory (興海茶廠) was founded in 2002 in Menghai during the wave of private factories that emerged as China’s state-run tea industry underwent restructuring in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Much of the production team originally came from the state-run Menghai Tea Factory, and over time Xinghai became known for producing solid, reliable puer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1021\" data-end=\"1395\"\u003eThis Xinghai tuocha is the kind of tea that really hits the spot when you’re in the mood for something bold and assertive. The storage has been very dry, so even after more than twenty years it still retains some rough edges. At the same time, the aging has brought it to a point where it can be enjoyed now, especially for those who appreciate strong traditional character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1397\" data-end=\"1659\"\u003eWhether the material contains leaf from LBZ is difficult to say with certainty, but the tea brews with a firm bitterness often associated with material from the Banzhang area. As the session progresses, that bitterness gradually gives way to returning sweetness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1661\" data-end=\"2068\"\u003eDespite its strength, the tea feels vibrant and clean, and sits comfortably in the body. In the cup, the flavor is smoky with a pleasant plum note. The liquor has good viscosity, with an oily texture that coats the mouth and produces strong salivation. The finish is long, lingering in both the mouth and throat. The tea also carries noticeable energy, with strong chaqi felt clearly throughout the session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2070\" data-end=\"2181\"\u003eFor those who enjoy bold, traditional sheng with depth and presence, this is a particularly satisfying example.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Tuo 205g","offer_id":47923532890371,"sku":null,"price":240.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 15g","offer_id":47923532923139,"sku":null,"price":19.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/04_XH_LBZ01_e142cc81-0f87-48c1-afe7-f3ac9b975ddf.jpg?v=1775703987"},{"product_id":"2000-jin-ye-hao-yiwu-ancient-tea-tree","title":"2000 Jin Ye Hao Yiwu Ancient Tea Tree","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"254\"\u003eThis tea should not be confused with the more famous 2001 Jin Ye Hao cake, often referred to as the “Green Sun,” commissioned by Ye Bing Huai. This 2000 release is less discussed among puer enthusiasts, but it stands as a compelling tea in its own right.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"256\" data-end=\"662\"\u003eThe cake has been stored in clean Taiwanese natural dry storage for more than twenty-five years, allowing it to age gracefully while preserving its distinct Yiwu character. The profile presents notes of wood, gentle spice, and honeyed sweetness, layered over a soft and elegant mouthfeel. The liquor carries a lingering aftertaste and a pleasant, gentle energy, making for a calm and satisfying session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"664\" data-end=\"962\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eFor its price, this tea offers an excellent opportunity to experience a well-aged Yiwu approaching thirty years of maturity, and it is one I can confidently recommend. At present, I have only a single cake available, so I have decided to offer 50g samples for those who would like to experience it.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Sample 50g","offer_id":47923529416963,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/2000_JYH01.heic?v=1774942995"},{"product_id":"2006-fu-lu-yuan-cha","title":"2006 Fu Lu Yuan Cha","description":"\u003cp data-end=\"634\" data-start=\"113\"\u003eThis 2006 cake is the first release in the Fu Lu Yuan Cha series initiated by puer tea scholar \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eDeng Shi Hai\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e. After many years studying antique puer teas, he set out to create a modern production that could capture the character and aging potential of the famous early twentieth-century cakes, serving as a bridge between the great puer teas of the past and those produced today. As the first production in the series, it holds particular historical significance and has become highly collectible. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1171\" data-start=\"636\"\u003eAs with Deng Shi Hai’s other productions from this period, the leaf material was sourced from Lincang, using a blend of spring and autumn material in the style of teas from the hao-ji era productions. At a time when many of the famous tea mountains of southern Yunnan were already being heavily harvested, he chose this region where the trees remained healthy and traditional harvesting practices were still followed. He believed that overharvesting in the more famous areas was gradually eroding the distinctive character of puer tea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1398\" data-start=\"1173\"\u003eThis cake has been stored in Taiwan since production and has aged cleanly. The storage conditions have been relatively dry, allowing the tea to develop depth and maturity while avoiding unwanted storage flavors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1798\" data-start=\"1400\"\u003eThe liquor is rich and layered, showing excellent depth and balance. The texture is smooth with a gentle bite. The returning sweetness is pronounced, followed by a long and steady aftertaste and strong salivation that lingers long after each sip. The chaqi is powerful, with an ethereal quality that gives the session a distinctly meditative character. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2028\" data-start=\"1800\"\u003eThis cake was obtained through a member of the \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eDeng Shi Hai Puer Research Institute\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, and its authenticity is guaranteed. Counterfeit versions of this production are known to exist, making reliable sourcing especially important.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Cake 360g","offer_id":47923521782019,"sku":null,"price":800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 15g","offer_id":47923521814787,"sku":null,"price":38.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/06_fulu01.jpg?v=1774943664"},{"product_id":"2005-mengku-guhua-cha","title":"2005 Mengku Rongshi Tea Factory Guhua Cha","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"120\" data-end=\"553\"\u003eI recently came across this Mengku Rongshi raw puer cake again and was reminded that it was the first puer cake I ever owned. My boss at the English cram school where I worked after first arriving in Taiwan in 2006 gave me a cake as a gift. At the time I didn’t know anything about puer, but I remember enjoying the tea. Nearly twenty years later, revisiting it, the flavor and texture remain much as I remember—still very appealing. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"555\" data-end=\"927\"\u003eOver the years I’ve developed a fondness for teas from Mengku Rongshi Tea Factory, especially productions from the early to mid-2000s. One thing I particularly appreciate about many teas from this period is that they are labeled 無公害, meaning cleanly grown and free from agricultural contaminants. In my experience, these teas tend to feel especially clean and vibrant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis tea has seen natural storage over the years, though on the drier end of the spectrum. The dry leaf and early infusions show a touch of storage character, which fades after the first couple of steeps as the tea opens up. The result is a tea beginning to show some aged character without the storage notes being overwhelming.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1167\" data-end=\"1472\"\u003e“Guhua” indicates that the leaf material was harvested in autumn. In the cup it shows the firm bitterness typical of Mengku material, along with some astringency that is balanced by the salivation that follows each sip. The texture is satisfying, with a lingering sweetness in the throat and strong chaqi.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1474\" data-end=\"1613\"\u003eIt feels fitting to offer the first puer cake I ever owned on the site now, nearly twenty years later—the tea that first drew me into puer.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Cake 400g","offer_id":47923513393411,"sku":null,"price":50.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 25g","offer_id":47923513426179,"sku":null,"price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/mk_guhua01.jpg?v=1774945019"},{"product_id":"2025-deng-shi-hai-banzhang","title":"2025 Deng Shi Hai Puer Research Institute Banzhang Sheng Puer","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis tea represents the first pressing produced by Deng Shi Hai’s Puer Research Institute, making it a significant production for those interested in teas associated with Deng Shi Hai’s work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrafted using leaf material from the well known Banzhang region, this tea was produced in the traditional style favored by Deng Shi Hai, drawing inspiration from teas of the historic Haoji era. The blend incorporates both spring and autumn harvest material, a classic approach designed to build structure and complexity for long-term aging rather than immediate drinking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the cup, the tea delivers a powerful and intense experience. The liquor is viscous, oily, and full-bodied, with the pronounced bitterness characteristic of Banzhang material. That bitterness lingers on the palate but is balanced by a returning sweetness that gradually emerges over the course of the session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eDespite its strength, the tea shows very little astringency. A strong aftertaste and persistent salivation leave a lasting impression long after the session ends. The chaqi is notably strong, making this tea best enjoyed when you have time to sit with it and appreciate its full expression. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis cake was acquired directly through a member of Deng Shi Hai’s Puer Research Institute, ensuring complete authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Cake 357g","offer_id":47923507396867,"sku":null,"price":450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 15g","offer_id":47923507429635,"sku":null,"price":22.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/dsh_banzhang01.jpg?v=1774946753"},{"product_id":"2001-green-sun","title":"2001 Green Sun","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"304\"\u003eThe 2001 Jin Ye Hao Yiwu Wild Old Tree Puer, also nicknamed the “Green Sun,” was commissioned by Ye Bing Huai, the tea merchant best known for the legendary 1999 Great Green Tree. Made from Yiwu material and pressed at Menghai Tea Factory, this tea has become well regarded among collectors of aged puer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"306\" data-end=\"577\"\u003eThe storage has been dry and clean with no off-flavors whatsoever. Over the years the tea has developed impressive refinement and subtlety in both aroma and flavor, with honey sweetness supported by woody and spicy notes alongside subtle earthiness and hints of mushroom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"579\" data-end=\"847\"\u003eThe texture is soft and smooth, as one would expect from high quality Yiwu material, with pronounced returning sweetness and especially impressive energy. Despite its age, there is still good strength here, and I believe the tea still has room for further development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"849\" data-end=\"936\"\u003eA tea well suited for slow, attentive sessions, with a character that rewards patience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"938\" data-end=\"1039\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"938\" data-end=\"1039\" data-is-last-node=\"\"\u003eNote: the wrapper has been bug bitten. This has had no effect on the tea itself or its performance.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Cake 357g","offer_id":48116983922947,"sku":null,"price":400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 15g","offer_id":48116983955715,"sku":null,"price":18.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/01_jinyehao01.jpg?v=1778215662"},{"product_id":"2005-dayi-7542-502","title":"2005 Dayi 7542-502","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"289\"\u003eThe 7542 recipe is often regarded as Menghai Tea Factory’s benchmark raw puer formula and has long served as a point of reference for evaluating sheng puer. The 2005 502 batch is considered one of the stronger productions from that year and has become a well-regarded example of semi-aged 7542. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"291\" data-end=\"598\"\u003eNatural dry storage in Taiwan has been excellent, with just the right amount of humidity to encourage steady aging without introducing any unpleasant storage notes. With just over two decades of age, the tea still has plenty of room for further development, something that reveals itself during the session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"600\" data-end=\"901\"\u003eWhen pushed to the extreme, this tea still has all the bitterness and astringency one could ask for. Brewed at medium strength, however—which is how I personally prefer it—it is beginning to show a different side, with increasing elegance, refinement, and a wonderful balance between bitter and sweet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"903\" data-end=\"1142\"\u003eThe huigan is especially pronounced and, to me, one of the hallmarks of the 7542 recipe. Early in the session, the bitterness carries a primarily resinous character, but as the tea progresses the sweetness gradually moves to the forefront. The energy is powerful, though in a pleasant and comfortable way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1211\" data-end=\"1346\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eA tea well suited for those interested in experiencing a more developed expression of the 7542 recipe.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Cake 357g","offer_id":48116957315331,"sku":null,"price":250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 15g","offer_id":48116957348099,"sku":null,"price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/7542_502_01.jpg?v=1778810438"},{"product_id":"2013-xiaguan-love-forever-paper-tong","title":"2013 Xiaguan Love Forever","description":"\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProduced by Xiaguan for Feitai, the Love Forever series is one that many Western puer drinkers will already recognize. Offered here is the paper tong version rather than the bamboo tong release, with many considering the paper tong version to be the more desirable of the two.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe story behind this tea is that it was pressed in 2013 using material from 2003, believed to be from the Banzhang area. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis example comes from very clean Taiwan dry storage. While the tea is beginning to show clear signs of age, time has done little to mute its aromatic and complex character. Many of the tea's more expressive qualities remain fully intact and on display.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBright, complex top notes with a distinctive note reminiscent of vanilla—though others may experience it differently—sit atop a woody and resinous foundation. While the mouthfeel is beginning to show signs of elegance with age, the tea still retains some roughness and a touch of astringency in the finish—characteristics that, in my experience, are not unusual for Xiaguan productions from this period.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrong returning sweetness, a pronounced aftertaste, powerful chaqi, and excellent endurance make this a tea that I believe offers very good value for the money, whether enjoyed now or aged further.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Cake 357g","offer_id":48275098042627,"sku":null,"price":110.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 25g","offer_id":48275098075395,"sku":null,"price":5.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/EBDEFB35-A104-4DF5-976E-C168AFC63BB9.jpg?v=1779956058"},{"product_id":"aged-phoenix-raw-tuocha","title":"Aged Tulin Phoenix Sheng Tuocha","description":"\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProduced by Nanjian Tea Factory under its Tulin Phoenix brand, this tuocha comes from the high-elevation tea gardens of Yunnan's Wuliang Mountains. Founded in the 1980s by Lin Xingyun, formerly of Xiaguan Tea Factory, Tulin became known for its Phoenix tuocha productions, including teas like this one. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis tea was represented to me as a 1990s production. While I cannot verify the exact production date, the dry storage, leaf appearance, and overall character of the tea suggest significant maturity, and the wrapper style appears consistent with earlier Tulin Phoenix productions. That said, a conservative estimate based on the tea's appearance and character would place it around 2000.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe flavor is clean, showing notes of wood, fruit, and the layered complexity that develops through long-term dry storage. A slight sourness occasionally appears but feels well integrated into the overall profile. The tea has a light, refreshing character without any heaviness.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAt the same time, the tea still carries some strength. A firm bitterness is present, though it can be moderated with careful brewing, gradually transforming into a lingering sweetness. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe tea is smooth and has good viscosity, with some dryness at the front of the mouth that is balanced by salivation after the sip. The tea has good endurance and a pleasant chaqi. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis tea is a great option for those looking to explore older dry-stored tuocha at an approachable price point.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNote: Although these were originally produced as 100g tuocha, the examples weighed for inventory ranged from approximately 90–100g. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Tuo 100g","offer_id":48275103056131,"sku":null,"price":38.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 25g","offer_id":48275103088899,"sku":null,"price":11.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/855F91C8-43C7-4D03-990D-1C2CFB9552BD.jpg?v=1779955740"},{"product_id":"2005-grateful-tea-factory-nannuo-shan","title":"2005 Grateful Tea Factory Nannuo Zheng Shan","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGrateful Tea Factory (感恩茶廠) is known for its pressings from the mid-2000s. This particular cake is a 2005 pressing made with material from Nannuo Shan, Menghai County, Yunnan. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is a semi-aged puer that offers a very satisfying and layered drinking experience, evolving nicely over the course of a session. The Taiwan natural dry storage has been clean, with no unpleasant storage notes. Both the aroma and flavor show good depth, with a satisfying texture and noticeable viscosity in the mouth. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAstringency is minimal. There is a noticeable returning sweetness, and the aftertaste is long, coating the mouth and throat. The tea also possesses a pleasant chaqi.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFor those looking for a solid semi-aged sheng puer, this tea is a good option. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Cake 350g","offer_id":48275106201859,"sku":null,"price":130.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 25g","offer_id":48275106234627,"sku":null,"price":10.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/2C72EAE5-43B9-4112-AC03-179335E7A4F1.jpg?v=1779956446"},{"product_id":"2013-malaysian-heroes-association-sheng-cake","title":"2013 Malaysian Heroes Association Sheng Cake","description":"\u003cp\u003ePressed at Menghai County Liuru Tea Factory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaiwan natural dry storage. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI sourced this tea for a customer and decided to offer it on the site because, at this price point, it feels like the kind of tea many western puer lovers would gladly welcome into their regular rotation. It packs a punch while still maintaining a nice balance, even when pushed. Fruity and woody, with a lively, satisfying mouthfeel, the aftertaste is long and lingering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis cake was a collaboration between Dama Chencang Tea Industries, Taiwan Jing He Tang, and Qun Ying Hui Tea Industries. Below is a translation of the inner ticket.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Malaysia, also known as “大馬,” is located in Southeast Asia, between the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Historically, Chinese immigrants brought tea from their homeland, specifically puer tea from Yunnan, known as “Qiao Xiao Round Tea.” Malaysian tea merchants stockpiled tea cakes to meet the needs of overseas Chinese. The subtropical climate and the temperature differences between day and night were conducive to aging puer, and over time, this fostered the unique flavor of Malaysian storage puer.” \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Journey Teas","offers":[{"title":"Whole Cake 357g","offer_id":48301757038851,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Sample 25g","offer_id":48301757071619,"sku":null,"price":3.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0809\/8260\/6083\/files\/F03041C0-812F-45A7-979E-AC2A73FADCD2.jpg?v=1780386497"}],"url":"https:\/\/journey-teas.com\/collections\/sheng-puer.oembed","provider":"Journey Teas","version":"1.0","type":"link"}