This 2011 ripe mini tuo cha has a luscious yet subtly sweet flavor. Each nest makes 3 cups. Full bodied with a hint of camphor.

• 1 cake per 24 oz of 212^oF water
• Steep for 5-7 Minutes
• 1 tsp of tea per 8 oz of spring water
• Country of Origin: China
• Caffeine level: Medium

An Overview of Pu-erh Pu-erh, Puer or Puerh is a variety of fermented dark tea produced in the mountains of the Yunnan province, China. Mostly from unoxidized Camellia sinensis, Pu-erh is processed from a large leaf variety of green tea. This unique process creates a tea with a rich, earthy flavor and an unmistakably bold character. Pu-erh tea is also said to have many health benefits, from aiding digestion and reducing cholesterol to boosting metabolism and aiding weight loss.

Sold in loose form, bags or in cakes (similar to small hockey pucks), good quality pu-erh tea has a deep, rich flavor that many consider to be earthy, leathery or mushroomy. Bad quality pu-erh often tastes muddy or moldy. High quality pu-erh often appeals to coffee drinkers and pairs well with rich desserts.

The Legend of Pu-erh

According to legend, the ethnic Pu people in Yunnan began to grow tea and served it as tribute to the emperors as early as in the Chinese Shang and Zhou Dynasties (1066 - 221 BC). During the Tang dynasty (618 - 907 AD), merchants began packing these large tea leaves into compressed bricks to transport by pack animal. Because of the long distances and difficult terrain, it would be months and sometimes years before the tea would reach its destination. Something miraculous occurred during these extended delivery period - the tea changed. Not only did the color of the tea transform from green to amber and eventually to near black, but also the taste of the tea became livelier, richer and smoother. Unbeknownst to the merchants, the tea underwent an aging and fermentation process whereby microbes acted on the tea, causing biological and enzymatic changes. The resulting tea, now known to the Chinese as Pu-erh, became sought-after by royalty, high officials and the literati - and later by tea connoisseurs. Highly prized, the Chinese Imperial Army traded Pu-er bricks with Genghis Khan and the Tibetans for their strong horses and traders used Pu-er bricks as money in China, Mongolia, Tibet and Russia.

Steeping Pu-erh

This tea can brewed several times, for each additional brew, please steep tea an extra 15-30 seconds.

*Our teas are sold by weight and not volume. We offer our one-size tea tin as complimentary with the purchase of 4 or more ounces. For example, dense teas like Ginger Turmeric don’t take up a lot of space in our tin. Conversely, the same weight of  fluffy teas like Chamomile Mint or The Healer would totally fill the tin.

Exploring the Enigmatic World of Aged Pu-erh Tea

Pu-erh tea, a unique variety of fermented tea originating from China's Yunnan Province, has intrigued tea enthusiasts worldwide. Unlike other teas, Pu-erh undergoes a fermentation process that can last for several years, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile. This aged tea is prized not only for its taste but also for its potential health benefits and historical significance.

The aging process of Pu-erh tea is akin to the maturation of fine wine. Freshly harvested leaves are initially processed into what is known as "raw" Pu-erh. These leaves are then allowed to naturally ferment and oxidize over time, sometimes spanning decades. The extended fermentation imparts a depth and earthiness to the tea, with older varieties often exhibiting notes of dried fruit, wood, and even a hint of smokiness. As the tea matures, its flavor becomes smoother and more refined, making each cup a journey through layers of taste and aroma.

Aged Pu-erh is not just a delight for the palate; it is also steeped in tradition and cultural heritage. Historically, Pu-erh tea was highly valued and traded along ancient tea routes, and it was even used as a form of currency in some regions. Today, the most coveted aged Pu-erh teas can fetch astronomical prices at auctions, reflecting their esteemed status among collectors and connoisseurs. The tea's unique properties and rich history contribute to its mystique and allure.

Health enthusiasts are increasingly drawn to aged Pu-erh tea for its purported health benefits. Studies suggest that the fermentation process enhances the tea's probiotic content, which can aid digestion and support gut health. Additionally, Pu-erh tea is believed to help with weight management, cholesterol reduction, and detoxification. These health benefits, coupled with the meditative experience of brewing and savoring the tea, make aged Pu-erh a popular choice among those seeking a holistic approach to wellness.

In conclusion, aged Pu-erh tea is a testament to the art of patience and tradition. Its complex flavors, historical significance, and potential health benefits make it a captivating subject for tea enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you are a seasoned tea drinker or just beginning to explore the world of fermented teas, aged Pu-erh offers a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered.