SOTD- sheng of the day

[Sp1key]

anyone care to try the 09 xiaguan banzhang cake which is going for about us60/cake?!

[thanks]

anyone care to try the 09 xiaguan banzhang cake which is going for about us60/cake?!

I would love to!

[ouch]

Just had a session with 08 Xiaguan Mushroom Tuo, it was fantastic. Nice sweet pipe tobacco that I expected from these FT Bayoan Teas. Next up for tomorrow is the Exquisite Elegance. 5.5g already loaded up in the gaiwan. Thanks for the quick delivery Steve!!

Those are two of my favorites.

[Hobbesoxon]

SotD: 2008 Xiaguan Jincha, a.k.a. "The Mushroom of Love".

It's been a week since my last tea session, thanks to being stranded in Dublin. Despite being the capital city of the Republic of Ireland, it is:

i. A real dump
ii. Unfathomably expensive - moreso than Rome
iii. Populated entirely by chubby American tourists

It's great to be home!


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[kimble22]

Some Nada plantation at work... Decent, but rather thin, fresh, flowery

[ouch]

SotD: 2008 Xiaguan Jincha, a.k.a. "The Mushroom of Love".

It's been a week since my last tea session, thanks to being stranded in Dublin. Despite being the capital city of the Republic of Ireland, it is:

i. A real dump
ii. Unfathomably expensive - moreso than Rome
iii. Populated entirely by chubby American tourists

It's great to be home!


Toodlepip,

Hobbes


Great to have you home, David. Welcome back, and hope the trip was worthwhile.

[Scotto]

2008 Menghai 7586

Nice enough for a work tea, but not interesting enough for me to buy a bing.

[Chicken Enchilada]

I like this tea. It’s pleasantly fruity, and sweet. It's mellower than the other young shengs I’ve tried, and isn't that bitter. The mouthfeel seemed light, and it stayed in the throat pretty well (would this be huigan?).

I like how puerh moistens the mouth rather than dry it out like most other teas do to me.

[ouch]

2008 Menghai 7586

Nice enough for a work tea, but not interesting enough for me to buy a bing.

Wouldn't that be the 7582?

In any event, the greatness of the 7532 obviates the need for this one. Unlike the 8582, which has a completely different presentation than the 75X2's, what the 7582 offers is similar to the 7542 and 7532, only less.

[Hobbesoxon]

Great to have you home, David. Welcome back, and hope the trip was worthwhile.

Thank'ee, sir!

The trip itself was brilliant - great conference, great folks, and I got to introduce my wife who was presenting a paper in my session. Haha. :chinese:


Toodlepip,

Hobbes


Obligatory conference doodles:

http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t24/HobbesOxon/Snaps/4958_661823403799_36815909_39418864.jpg



http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t24/HobbesOxon/Snaps/4958_661823643319_36815909_39418877.jpg

http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t24/HobbesOxon/Snaps/4958_661823658289_36815909_39418880.jpg


http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t24/HobbesOxon/Snaps/4958_661823648309_36815909_39418878.jpg

[Salsero]

Obligatory conference doodles: I am so pleased to see that I can understand some science after all!

[arghblech]

My nadacha order arrived while I am yet without a brewing vessel. Oh cruel fate!

I got a bing of the Nannuo Plantation. I was too late for the others. Luckily they through in a sample of each so I'm not SOL! I also bagged a few sessions wort of the 80's CNNP shu.

I won't be drinking any tea until the weekend as I've had a camping trip magically appear. Off to the mountains and desert of New Mexico.

[kimble22]

Dian Hong from CLoudwalker. High-pitched but not bitter, probably a mid nineties loose-leaf. (well definitely loose-leaf, but a guess on the age). It's pretty good, not exactly my favorite but my wife likes it. its a trooper and always goes around 12+ with the 2nd half being the one I prefer b/c its sweeter.

[Hobbesoxon]

2009 overcooked-during-shaqing maocha from Nada. Creamy, roasty shengpu. Office fodder!


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[netsurfr]

anyone care to try the 09 xiaguan banzhang cake which is going for about us60/cake?!

Wow! Seems a bit steep for an 09. :scared: Do you know anyone that has tried it?

[ouch]

'08 Xiaguan Fei Tai Duling Fengsao aka exquisite elegance

It's almost as if the kind folks at Xiaguan went to the trouble of preparing this cake for me personally. Definately on my short list.

[Aquanin]

'08 Xiaguan Fei Tai Duling Fengsao aka exquisite elegance

It's almost as if the kind folks at Xiaguan went to the trouble of preparing this cake for me personally. Definately on my short list.

Heck yeah. I just go 2 of these. I really like it. It's like a refined Mushroom Tuo. I need to get more!! :)

[ouch]

anyone care to try the 09 xiaguan banzhang cake which is going for about us60/cake?!

Have a link? Can't seem to find that one,


Heck yeah. I just go 2 of these. I really like it. It's like a refined Mushroom Tuo. I need to get more!! :)

I also like the fact that it's a full pound. Hobbes cautions us to be leery of oversized, 500g bings, but this one is not a gimmick.

[ouch]

And the hits keep rolling out-

http://cgi.ebay.com/Organic-Old-Tree-Tuo-Cha-XiaGuan-Pu-erh-2009-250g-Raw_W0QQitemZ250448222659QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_Def aultDomain_0?hash=item3a4fe099c3&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262&_trkparms=%7C301%3A1%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A30

This one is certainly priced right. The '05 was terrific, and those 250g tuos should last forever. :drool:


And still more 09's-
http://cgi.ebay.com/Xia-Guan-Yellow-Ribbon-Tuo-Cha-2009-100g-Raw_W0QQitemZ250445561866QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_Def aultDomain_0?hash=item3a4fb8000a&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262&_trkparms=%7C301%3A1%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A30
http://cgi.ebay.com/Xia-Guan-Te-Ji-Tuo-Cha-2009-100g-Raw_W0QQitemZ250445559351QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_Def aultDomain_0?hash=item3a4fb7f637&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262&_trkparms=%7C301%3A1%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A30

[Chicken Enchilada]

Heck yeah. I just go 2 of these. I really like it. It's like a refined Mushroom Tuo. I need to get more!! :)
I just had this one. The aroma of the dry leaves is really strong, and it kind of intimidated me. I essentially gave it two rinses cause the first brew was really bitter and I threw it out, but wow! this stuff is delicious. I'll definitely be getting a cake or two of this. Good stuff.

[ouch]

Sometimes you want a tough, big, brutal tea. Other times call for lighter, more delicate fare. The Changtai 7538 strikes me as such a tea, but I don't have any right now, so I had the "no name" Yiwu Zhengshan Bulang brick that received much commentary. Toasty and jammy, it was delightful with breakfast.

[Sp1key]

Have a link? Can't seem to find that one,

I also like the fact that it's a full pound. Hobbes cautions us to be leery of oversized, 500g bings, but this one is not a gimmick.

hi ouch, a friend showed me his piece so I dont have any link/pics at the moment. maybe its not officially released yet but should be out now I think

[ouch]

'08 Xiaguan 7653

The non-FT branded bings all seem to be lighter and less complex, but the flavors are correct. I enjoy this cheapie every time.


hi ouch, a friend showed me his piece

Not that there's anything wrong with that.........

[Hobbesoxon]

'08 Xiaguan 7653

The non-FT branded bings all seem to be lighter and less complex, but the flavors are correct. I enjoy this cheapie every time.



Not that there's anything wrong with that.........

Speaking of which, YS just listed the first of the 2009 FT productions :w00t:

[Hobbesoxon]

SotD: Random office maocha - smooth, potent, tasty. The perfect accompaniment to some classic Wu-Tang Clan and an easy day spent writing a paper.

"A swordfight is like a game of chess: you must think first... before you move." :ninja:


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[ouch]

'08 Menghai 7532 (801)

If you were to take away all of my tea save this one, I'd pout, whimper, complain, curse, and throw things about the house.

But I'd still be able to enjoy a good tea session every day.

[netsurfr]

2008 Menhai 7542 (801)
I like this tea a lot... maybe not as much as the 7532 but I like it a lot.
I can hardly wait to try some of the 2009 batch; it should be arriving in about 4 weeks.

[thanks]

SotD: Random office maocha - smooth, potent, tasty. The perfect accompaniment to some classic Wu-Tang Clan and an easy day spent writing a paper.

"A swordfight is like a game of chess: you must think first... before you move." :ninja:


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

Protect your neck.


Today for me after a hard, rough day's work is some 96 8582. This makes me wonder why I don't pick up a tong of the 08 8582 for cheap, and just forget about it like I've forgotten about my liu'an.

[Scotto]

2008 Peacock of Menghai. Fruity and delicious, with some punchy bitterness. Nice tea.

[netsurfr]

The 08 Peacock of Menhai is a favorite. I love the fruity flavor although I must admit that I usually brew it to minimize the bitterness. I like a hint but not the real punchy bitterness that can be obtained with more leaf or longer infusion times. I know... call me a wimp! I just like the bitterness and astringency as a backround note as opposed to the main melody.

[P_K]

'08 Xiaguan 7653 -

Okay....okay this was a much better session. None of the smokiness of the first one. Perhaps the air out time was beneficial. Enjoyable.

[Sp1key]

light wet storage, thick broth, much of bitterness has transformed to give a strong huigan, presence of cha qi, most astrigency gave way to its smoothness.

besides the lack of aroma possibly due to its storage condition, the only problem is the current price :001_huh:

[netsurfr]

Been a good while since I have visited this tea. It greeted me like an old friend. Great way to start the day!

[Aquanin]

Tried the 08 Xiaguan Nan Zhao Round Cake today for the first time. I like this one. I actually reminds me of that 2000 Long Yuan Hao flavor profile but it still has the bitterness of a youngin. This one is a little sensetive to steeping times as it can get a little too bitter for me. It is nice though. Quite a bit different than the other 08 Xiaguan offerings I have right now.

[Hobbesoxon]

Celebrating the return to the tea-table after 14 days of restriction to office brewing, we opened some 1970s Tongxinghao from a kindly soul known only as "Warwickb".

The remarkable sweetness of this thick, woody tea was particularly unusual, and took me by surprise - pleasantly.

Now, back in my office, I'm infusing the exhausted leaves, which still yield excellent results, and a continuing brightening/calming sensation.

It is a fine old tea, and I understand that Warwickb bought a whole cake of it while recently in Taiwan. A great purchase!


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[Aquanin]

Sounds lovely, I really need to get my hands on some samples of old sheng. The oldest I have tried is 2000.

[Hobbesoxon]

Sounds lovely, I really need to get my hands on some samples of old sheng. The oldest I have tried is 2000.

I've had some nice ones from Houde and Nadacha - they do quite a lot of samples of old tea, and might give you what you're after :)

Let us know how you get on!


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[Chicken Enchilada]

Mmmm, tasty. Long lasting too. I'm on my 6th and it's still going strong. Are all FT releases like this? I look forward to tasting the others.

[Aquanin]

Chicken, yeah most of the FT releases I have tried have been pretty darn good. My fav is the Mushroom Tuo and the Exquisite Elegance...wait and the Happy Tuo, and the ... OK i need to stop.

[ouch]

Chicken, yeah most of the FT releases I have tried have been pretty darn good. My fav is the Mushroom Tuo and the Exquisite Elegance...wait and the Happy Tuo, and the ... OK i need to stop.

I was going to write the exact same thing, word for word, so I figured I'd just quote you.

'08 Menghai 0622 (801)
This can bite you if you use too much leaf or let the first few brews infuse too long, but it's a well balanced, delicious tea. Not bad for a newfangled blend.

[Hobbesoxon]

SotD: an old 2004 Hengfu "Laohei" [old black].

This otherwise unexcellent cake is interesting because it was the very first one that Lei and I bought, and it has been aged along with us. I use it as a metric for determining how well our conditions are set - and the results are really encouraging. It's now dark, and getting seriously wood-like. It used to be brutal and harsh, and it now showing some serious mahogany tendencies, despite only being 5 years old.

The game is definitely afoot!

Today's tunes: more classic Wu-Tang Clan. I appear to be bringing the motherblanking ruckus. :ninja:


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[Scotto]

2008 Menghai "Big Classic". Buttery and low-toned. A nice change of pace.

[thanks]

Today's tunes: more classic Wu-Tang Clan. I appear to be bringing the motherblanking ruckus. :ninja:


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

Well that's because Wu-Tang Clan ain't nothing to blank with!


SOTD: 2006 7582. I did not care for this tea the first time I tried this, but after another session I enjoy it a little more. It's not great, as it sits in the throat uncomfortably, but it has a good mellow flavor going on. Not bad for a relaxed, lazy Sunday session.

[Salsero]

You can have your fancy women and high priced liquor, long as I have this 2004 Bao Yan "Tibetan Flame" brick.

[Scotto]

You can have your fancy women and high priced liquor, long as I have this 2004 Bao Yan "Tibetan Flame" brick.

That is a very nice tea. I may have to dig a piece off my brick this week.

[ouch]

You can have your fancy women and high priced liquor, long as I have this 2004 Bao Yan "Tibetan Flame" brick.

You can have your high priced women and fancy liquor, long as I have this Bao Yan brick. :lol:

[ouch]

'08 Xiaguan FT Imperial Tribute, Wu Tang Yu Shang formula

If someone were to ask me for an example of a tea that requires a very light hand in brewing, this would be the first to come to mind. It's a fine tasting brew, but it seems to require a negative steeping time for the first few infusions. It really needs a gaiwan for what Hobbes likes to call "the old in-out, in-out". :tongue_sm

I find it very hard to brew in an yixing, but after the third or fourth infusion it begins to settle down and hit its stride, afterwhich it continues to produce for well over a dozen brews.

As PS sells a 200g tuo for $18 ('06) and YS has the 357g bing ('08) for $14.50, the cake is quite a bargain. This pu'er needs a lot of time..........

[Hobbesoxon]

It really needs a gaiwan for what Hobbes likes to call "the old in-out, in-out". :tongue_sm


Ah, a bit of the old ultraviolence on a Friday night, followed by some of the old in-out, in-out.

Marvellous, my droogies.


Toodlepip,

'obbes

[ouch]

:lol:
http://bp0.blogger.com/_qczHRzqZoMI/R6Zsi0eBb2I/AAAAAAAAAFQ/L-kdRE7ND_M/s320/moloko+vellocet.jpg

From left: Scotto, Ouch, Hobbes, Netsurfr.

[Hobbesoxon]

Related: the new album from classic thrash/death outfit, Sepultura, entitled A-lex (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A-Lex), based on the same pains in the gulliver.


Yarbles,

Hobbes

P.s. Though good, I prefer their previous album (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dante_XXI), based on Dante's Inferno. As always, the correct solution is to buy both.

[ouch]

It's time for me to pop open another bing, and you guys can pick it. I want to open a Menghai from the meager cellar, and I have the following sealed cakes to choose from-

'07 0772
'07 Silver Dayi
'08 8582
'08 7582
'08 Peacock of Menghai
'08 7542
'08 0622

What's it going to be?

[Hobbesoxon]

<-- 2007 Silver Dayi votage

[netsurfr]

Given those choices, I would have to go with the 07 Silver Dayi first closely followed by the 08 Peacock.

[Scotto]

Easy way out - just send them all to me and I'll send you back a sample of what I choose for you.

[kimble22]

mengku yeh yieh,

strong, good... one of my favorites, very basic taste and aroma (I have the wet version) that opens open with a great scent around 4-5 infusions, like a cool mountain breeze. Solid.

[Salsero]

I was invited to partake of this expensive, loose leaf border tea from TeaSpring (http://www.teaspring.com/Gao-Li-Gong-Shan-60s.asp),
purportedly dating back to the 1960's.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Teachat%20linked/1960s-Gao-Li-Gong-Shan.jpg

I was impressed much more by the price than by the tea.

[ouch]

7532

What can I say? I'm a boring guy.

[Scotto]

2008 Xiaguan FT Nan Zhao Round Cake

Well, I finally found an FT cake I didn't like. I have tried it a few times, and it is just bitter and flowery in an unpleasant way. Actually, after about 10 infusions it turns into something a bit more interesting, but I am not willing to put up with many lousy infusions to get there.

[ouch]

Old list:
2008 Xiaguan FT Nan Zhao Round Cake


New list:
2008 Xiaguan FT Nan Zhao Round Cake


If I recall, Hobbes review of this cake was less than thrilling.

[Salsero]

Thanks again to Fatman2 for a generous sample of this tea in addition to the sample I reviewed a couple weeks ago from an anonymous producer: 2004 Yiwu Raw 250-gr brick that came 2 bricks wrapped in bamboo.

I have to say I liked the Yiwu more. The first couple infusions of this Mengku were great: heady and floral ... it even reminded me a bit of sencha. As I progressed through the infusions the liquor color became more red and I tasted (or imagined) a dian hong sort of flavor that is not among my favorites. That fact did not, however, stop me from putting it through ten or so infusions!

The photo is one of the earlier infusions, maybe 3. The red became more pronounced later.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Teachat%20linked/Mengku-Bai-Nian-Gu-Cha.jpg

Thanks again, Seb!

[P_K]

08 Xiaguan FT Baoyan Jincha -

Assertive and bold. No apologies here. Not as nuanced as some of the FT bings but that's not its raison d'etre. This is the second day on this tea and it is very good. Lives up to the hype.

[arghblech]

So I got my new gaiwan into play when I got back from my trip. The gaiwan is supposed to be 120mL but I measured it at almost 150mL. It makes the tea sessions slower and makes me more caffeinated. I haven't gotten the hang of it yet and I'm a bit surprised how much different the vessel size makes in the brewing process.

Sheng-wise, I've had these in the last few days.

2007 Xi-Shi Hao "Din Jin Nu Er" from Hou De. Crap session. Bitter and unpleasant. I'm blaming the new gaiwan.

2005 Xiaguan Ancient Wild Tree sample from Netsurfr. This tastes like a campfire made from found wood. All the way through. I noted a bit of a camphor/minty coolness to the middle infusions in a previous session but I found none of it this time. 8.6g to polish off my sample.

[Salsero]

Last time I tried this sample, brewed in a pot, I thought it was sweet, buttery, and light. Today I am pushing it to longer infusion times in a gaiwan with a bit more leaf, and I am finding it pleasant, but not compelling. Ἡράκλειτος couldn't step twice into the same river: I seem to have the same problem with tea!

[ouch]

'08 Xiaguan FT Duling Banzhao

I consider the "Baoyan family" of teas to be winter blends, best enjoyed after a snowball fight, but that hasn't stopped me from appreciating them year round. This one doesn't have that brutal hard edge of some of the other young Fei Tai releases. It's a great all around sheng. Mama Looka Boo Boo Day!

[Scotto]

2005 Xiaguan King Cang 'er tuocha

I find that when I play golf, my best rounds are when I stop thinking about my swing. Just letting things happen, relying on muscle memory, and not focusing on mechanics can have startling results. This tea session was like that. This is a tea that I have come to dislike due to its fickleness and brutality. This time around I was focused on some work I was doing, and brewing tea in parallel without giving it much thought. After enjoying a few infusions I suddenly gave a start and thought "hey! this is the Cang 'er I am enjoying!". Go figure.

It is still not something I can get too excited about, nor do I have any desire to add more to my stash, but in this instant I am enjoying it for what it is.

[nancho]

SOTD

2007 Mengku "1974"

[P_K]

08 Menghai 7532 -

Wow. Floral. Probably the most floral puerh Ive tried. Its tough when you go from the Baoyan to this however. Much lighter than I expected yet it was quite nice and.....refreshing.

[Sp1key]

1998 Menghai Wild Arbor Raw (dry storage)

Very balanced, strong cha qi, aging well for a 10yr raw... looking forward to its future potential

[ouch]

'07 Mengyang Guoyan star of Bulang

Around a year ago, I used to think the Guoyans were the bee's knees. That was probably due to the fact thay were a step up from the crap I had been trying. It's not bad, decent in fact, but when they're all gone I won't be restocking them.

[Hobbesoxon]

2009 Nadacha Yiwu maocha, office style. Potent, boisterous, pungent, offensive, rambunctious - thoroughly delicious.

Accompanying tunes: ODB, "Return to the 36 Chambers"
:shuriken:


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[pb2q]

2009 Nadacha Bulang. Potent, energetic and delicious. Definitely a bitterness 'not like normal bitterness': it's a grapefruit that aspires to becoming a pepper. Do yourself a favor and buy that sample pack.

Accompanying tunes: Balachander

Hello gents, first time post from a lurker and a teachatter.

[arghblech]

Welcome! I've got the sample pack waiting for me. I can sense it when I enter the room :biggrin:

[P_K]

08 Menghai 7532 -

Wow. Floral. Probably the most floral puerh Ive tried. Its tough when you go from the Baoyan to this however. Much lighter than I expected yet it was quite nice and.....refreshing.

Second day -

Subdued floral notes. Grain like flavors as Hobbes describes them (accurately I might note) and a pleasurable sweetness plus improved mouthfeel. Im liking this one even more today.

[netsurfr]

:lol:
http://bp0.blogger.com/_qczHRzqZoMI/R6Zsi0eBb2I/AAAAAAAAAFQ/L-kdRE7ND_M/s320/moloko+vellocet.jpg

From left: Scotto, Ouch, Hobbes, Netsurfr.

:lol: :001_rolle :lol:

[netsurfr]

2009 Nadacha Bulang. Potent, energetic and delicious. Definitely a bitterness 'not like normal bitterness': it's a grapefruit that aspires to becoming a pepper. Do yourself a favor and buy that sample pack.

Accompanying tunes: Balachander

Hello gents, first time post from a lurker and a teachatter.

Welcome to the group! Glad to have another person with whom to share tea thoughts.

[Salsero]

This one is definitely not tame yet, but is showing promise.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Teachat%20linked/Dayi-Early-Spring-Tuo.jpg

[ouch]

Beautiful pic, Salsero.


Today I found myself out of toast and jam, so I had the next best thing-
'07 Xizhihao 8582. I'd rate this as the best of the "lower tier" XZH's. The dragon/phoenix is less compelling, and the 7542 is an outright dud.

[kimble22]

2009 Nadacha Bulang. Potent, energetic and delicious. Definitely a bitterness 'not like normal bitterness': it's a grapefruit that aspires to becoming a pepper. Do yourself a favor and buy that sample pack.

Accompanying tunes: Balachander

Hello gents, first time post from a lurker and a teachatter.


Welcome! I've trying to save the Bulang for as long as possible, but I may finally break down and have some tonight. I have a couple of the other cakes and they're kind of lacking in potency, but not duration. Its interesting. I'm going to have fun appreciating them as they age. (hopefully:001_rolle)

[kimble22]

Hey guys... Do you ever store your puerh inside your yixing? I conducted an experiment by accident where I set some tea inside a gaiwan and inside my yixing for future convenience, and suddenly it was too hot/too busy to drink and now about 3 days later, I guess the obvious happened. Inside the gaiwan the tea smelled about the same as if broken from a cake, but with a more noticeble flower smell. Inside the yixing the smell had exploded! The fragrance was fully releasing itself from the leaves due to the porous nature the aroma was everywhere. Very interesting, what kind of storage for cakes do most people use? Do you put it any type of clay jar after breaking from cake? I've noticed this produces vastly different results. Anyway... Have a nice weeked all!

[Sp1key]

Hey guys... Do you ever store your puerh inside your yixing? I conducted an experiment by accident where I set some tea inside a gaiwan and inside my yixing for future convenience, and suddenly it was too hot/too busy to drink and now about 3 days later, I guess the obvious happened. Inside the gaiwan the tea smelled about the same as if broken from a cake, but with a more noticeble flower smell. Inside the yixing the smell had exploded! The fragrance was fully releasing itself from the leaves due to the porous nature the aroma was everywhere. Very interesting, what kind of storage for cakes do most people use? Do you put it any type of clay jar after breaking from cake? I've noticed this produces vastly different results. Anyway... Have a nice weeked all!

if your gaiwan/yixing is still wet, you'll get some wet stored tea! and maybe some mold along the way :w00t:
if its dry wont matter much in a gaiwan, never tried it on a yixing pot just yixing jar which is good

[_JP_]

Hey guys... Do you ever store your puerh inside your yixing?

How does it brew up? I wonder if the smell being intense means that it has left the leaf and wouldn't be present in the tea.

[P_K]

08 Menghai 7542 -

A solid tea with little astringency and no smoke. Good all around performer. Does not display as much character as the 7532 but for the price you probably can't go wrong having one in your collection.

[kimble22]

How does it brew up? I wonder if the smell being intense means that it has left the leaf and wouldn't be present in the tea.

It was noticeably different, as the storage seemed to bring out a sweeter side of the tea. The aroma carried through to the cup, and this makes partial sense because I didn't air out the yixing at all, I just brewed, with one rinse/warming of the pot. In fact I would say aroma increased, but it may just be that it was different and I was really trying to focus on it. :blush:

Anyway, the results were quite delicious... Try it, you may be surprised at the result even just overnight.

[Salsero]

I liked this when I bought it from Hou De two and a half years ago, but it is becoming richer and more complex as it gets older. And, of course, I love the enormous leaves. Unusual to find huge, gorgeous leaves and delicious tea in the same wrapper!

Photo is from last Christmas which was the last time I dug into it.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Teachat%20linked/Ming-Yuan-Hao-Yiwu.jpg

[netsurfr]

Stunning pic as ususal, Salsero!

[ouch]

'08 Peacock of Menghai

Maiden voyage of a brand spanking new bing, as selected by the SOTD gang. Very floral and fruity for a Menghai, it's almost like an oolong in presentation. Me likey.

[Salsero]

This is the one from the "5 Colored Peacock" series?
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Tea/2008_mh_menghai_kq_801_bao.jpg

[kimble22]

not sure if this is the right thread, so I apologize ahead of time.... I've got 1 naka, and 1 bulang, never opened, for trade or sale, I will even toss in a 12 gents shu in the mix if that interests you. Thanks everyone.

[Chicken Enchilada]

'08 Peacock of Menghai

Maiden voyage of a brand spanking new bing, as selected by the SOTD gang. Very floral and fruity for a Menghai, it's almost like an oolong in presentation. Me likey.

I had this one yesterday. How do the other peacocks stack up? Are they just as good?

[ouch]

This is the one from the "5 Colored Peacock" series?
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Tea/2008_mh_menghai_kq_801_bao.jpg

That's it.

[ouch]

not sure if this is the right thread, so I apologize ahead of time.... I've got 1 naka, and 1 bulang, never opened, for trade or sale, I will even toss in a 12 gents shu in the mix if that interests you. Thanks everyone.

We have a better place for that-
http://badgerandblade.com/vb/forumdisplay.php?f=90
but no one is going to bother you for being enthusiastic.

[Salsero]

I had this one yesterday. How do the other peacocks stack up? Are they just as good? The Menghai is probably my favorite of the five, but I have also had very good sessions with the Nannuo and Bulang. I haven't managed to have a good session with the Bada or Mengsong, but they may have potential I am simply missing out on.

Esteemed member Thanks briefly reviewed them on TeaChat (http://tinyurl.com/mfhqzf) in January, finding the Menghai Mtn cake of less interest than Dayi's regular blends.

All I have is the sample set and I keep thinking about ordering one or all of the whole cakes but have resisted temptation so far.

Photo opp of the 2005 Ming Yuan Hao I had yesterday.
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Teachat%20linked/Ming-Yuan-Hao-and-Drop-Ball.jpg

After a few rounds of it, I decided the first couple infusions were the best and the others seemed a bit monotone. The teapot is a fairly new one from the Shouzhen Workshop (http://www.zishateapot.co.uk/chinese-yixing-zisha-teapotduoqiu-drop-ball-p-70.html?zenid=kpvqbf2mcdpkg5n4h8tq5t05b1).

[thanks]

Esteemed member Thanks briefly reviewed them on TeaChat (http://tinyurl.com/mfhqzf) in January, finding the Menghai Mtn cake of less interest than Dayi's regular blends.

I still mostly stand by my opinion. It's a solid tea, and there's definitely nothing wrong with it. It's flavor is solid, it's chunky, sweet, and has a nice huigan, but I'd just much rather sample a 7532. I think I might be unfairly biased against this tea though, seeing as how I've had way too much Dayi in the past two years that I've grown quite bored with that big M signature flavor.


Today I'm drinking the Xiaguan XY8853. Yowza! This one still manages to impress. Out of all of the plantation cakes in this price range that I've tried from 08 (too many, to be honest) this was definitely my favorite. Consisting of 1-2 year old (well now 2-3 year old) maocha from Wuliang and Lincang, this is a tasty, pungent Xiaguan affair.

[Chicken Enchilada]

I'm liking this one more each time a have it. Menghai is addicting!

[Salsero]

Dang ... finishing off this sample and NOW I figure out how to brew it. The differences between aged and young tea are just enormous.

In this one, all the pleasure seems to be all in the afterglow ... gentle energy and narcotic perfume of hui gan. And it takes a few infusions to get its motor warmed up.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Teachat%20linked/80s-Xiaguan-Bamboo-wrapped-tuocha.jpg

[ouch]

'04 CNNP 7548

The least offensive of the CNNP's that I have. It's not an abomination.

[netsurfr]

07 Xi-Zhi Hao 7542. This was very enjoyable. Not like the Menhai but I do not have enough experience to determine in what ways. Need to try the Menhai side by side and get a better feel for these two.

[arghblech]

2002 HLH Mengku Wild Arbor

I know most folks don't think very highly of HLH but I had an above average session with this one today. Nothing top notch but servicable. Very easy to brew... maybe as close to foolproof as I have.

[ouch]

More Peacock of Menghai.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7bLs66uMuI&feature=channel

[thanks]

2002 HLH Mengku Wild Arbor

I know most folks don't think very highly of HLH but I had an above average session with this one today. Nothing top notch but servicable. Very easy to brew... maybe as close to foolproof as I have.

I'm overall a pretty big fan of HLH. Their 05 Ba Ma Gong Chun is amazing, as is their 07 Bulang, 05 Lincang Impression, and their 08 Ban'e Manzhang. These are just examples I personally find above average. There are more that I liked. I think almost all of HLH's bad press comes from our fabulous members here.

[Salsero]

I think the problem with HLH is that they opened to such good notices that when some of their cakes turned out average the fans wanted to lynch them.

Why do I sometimes feel a little car sick watching Jim's Adventures in Pulandia movies?

[Scotto]

I'm overall a pretty big fan of HLH. Their 05 Ba Ma Gong Chun is amazing, as is their 07 Bulang, 05 Lincang Impression, and their 08 Ban'e Manzhang. These are just examples I personally find above average. There are more that I liked. I think almost all of HLH's bad press comes from our fabulous members here.

That's what makes life interesting, isn't it? :cool:

[pb2q]

Holy synchronicity.

My sotd was the Hai Lang Hao 2008 Ban Zhang + Man'E. The first 4-5 infusions were really impressive: the proper sort of bitterness, lovely and intriguing aromas from the aroma cup. Then everything went suddenly flat, 1-dimensional for the following brews. Given it's very compelling start, the tea is probably not to blame. I'll revisit this one with greater care.

[thanks]

That's what makes life interesting, isn't it? :cool:

Oh, very much so. I couldn't agree more.

Also, more HLH for me :001_tt2:

[arghblech]

Apparently I'm not the contrarian I though I was :biggrin:

[ouch]

'08 Xiaguan 7653

A nice, if not thrilling, lower end Xiaguan.

[P_K]

07 Xi Zhi Hao 7542 -

I found this to be quite enjoyable as well. I can't put my finger on anything in particular but it is well rounded and tasty.

[Hobbesoxon]

Ahhh, shengpu. After 8 days of hectic tea-free activity, I find myself sitting in the relative calm of my office with some anonymous 2009 maocha. Delicious.

The power of sheng compels you! The power of sheng compels you!

enKnbMLNiiA


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[ouch]

The power of sheng compels you! The power of sheng compels you!

Why, Demi, why?

The good news.
Mrs. Ouch has discovered a pu'er she likes.
The bad news.
Mrs. Ouch has discovered a pu'er she likes.

How much is this?
I don't know, around $100 a pound.
That's not bad. Buy a case.

So if she likes it, it's perfectly reasonable to buy ten kilos at a ridiculous price that I just made up. Yet she'll consider a $9 cake of 8582 that I like to be too much. Dr. John Gray gave his book the wrong title. He should have called it Men Are From Earth, Women Are Not.


I'll be drinking a lot of Peacock of Menghai, as far as I can tell. Nothing wrong with that.:001_tt1:

[Hobbesoxon]

How much is this?
I don't know, around $100 a pound.
That's not bad. Buy a case.


Superb news! Have you tried Mrs. Ouch on that $1,000 1960s GYG from Houde yet? :chinese:

The power of sheng will set you free!


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[netsurfr]

Ahhh, shengpu. After 8 days of hectic tea-free activity, I find myself sitting in the relative calm of my office with some anonymous 2009 maocha. Delicious.

The power of sheng compels you! The power of sheng compels you!

Toodlepip,

Hobbes

Now that was just a wierd clip, Hobbes. :wink2: Although, I could envision Ouch chanting over his wife "The power of sheng compels you, the power of sheng compels you!" :w00t:

[arghblech]

2005 HLH Lincang Impression

Very nice. Little bitterness. Easy to brew. I want a milk crate full of this.

[netsurfr]

2005 HLH Lincang Impression

Very nice. Little bitterness. Easy to brew. I want a milk crate full of this.

Hmmm... I might know someone that help fill that milk crate for you. :wink2:
Some folks don't care for the HLH but I had some 2002 Hai Lang Hao Mengku Wild Arbor today that was wonderful. I'm glad that I have enough of this to dip into on a regular basis. Smooth, nice balance.

[Yossarian]

"06 Xiaguan Baoyan Brick -

Very nice stuff.
Dark, thick in the mouth and sweetness that lingers well. Vaguely like some of my favorite ShuPu. Light smoke flavor that is not overpowering. No astringency to speak of. Makes my mouth water. Soothing "forest floor" aroma. Heavy and warm in the stomach (in a good way).

And all for $.01/gm US! Happiness in a cup.

[Hobbesoxon]

2009 Puerh Shop "Meiguohao 904"

What's happening here?! This is another factory's cake ("Menghaixian Jiming"), which has an existing brand ("Xianxianhao") and an existing cake-name ("Shengshi Mingxiang"). The Puerh Shop web-site claims are highly disingenuous!

The tea is great, though. This seems to go against Ouch's "Menghai Theorem", in which any factory with "Menghai" in its name that isn't the Menghai should be avoided!


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[ouch]

Ah, the exception that confirms the rule. My theory is based only on probability and makes no claim regarding any individual occurrence. I'm sure you can get a good sheng from The Menghai Matzoh Factory for the simple reason that producing tea is not rocket surgery and there is no shortage of good material available in the Menghai area from which to choose. You can also hit on 20 in blackjack (Peter Griffen his on 21) and still win, but I wouldn't suggest it as a basic strategy.

I'm glad to hear that Jim has come up with a winner.

'08 Xiaguan FT Imperial Tribute
Tuff guy tea.

[Scotto]

I have been time challenged for the past week due to work implosions, but finally had some time today for 2008 Xiaguan FT Exquisite Elegance. Ahhhh....

[thanks]

2009 Puerh Shop "Meiguohao 904"

What's happening here?! This is another factory's cake ("Menghaixian Jiming"), which has an existing brand ("Xianxianhao") and an existing cake-name ("Shengshi Mingxiang"). The Puerh Shop web-site claims are highly disingenuous!

The tea is great, though. This seems to go against Ouch's "Menghai Theorem", in which any factory with "Menghai" in its name that isn't the Menghai should be avoided!


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

I've seen similar productions to this before. Hai Lang Hao has done this with the Shuang Yi factory. Granted HLH's still indicate that they are HLH productions pressed at other factories, but then why bear the name of the factory pressing it at all? Wouldn't it be a new wrapper at that point, and thus the money saving aspect would be gone? My thoughts are that some factories are willing to wheel and deal concerning their wrappers and third party pressings. If some third party wants to source a really good tea, but would like to save money on the wrapper then it makes perfect sense to me for the factory to try and pass it off as their own. Meanwhile, the third party saves a tiny chunk of change from the wrapper, and it's kind of a win win.

My thoughts are that the tea is probably genuine. The only way to really find out is to try other teas from the factory that pressed this.

[ouch]

I have been time challenged for the past week due to work implosions, but finally had some time today for 2008 Xiaguan FT Exquisite Elegance. Ahhhh....

I'll second that "Ahhhh...,"

I have 90% of a cake plus a sealed one, and that's not nearly enough. I don't have multiple cakes of many pu'ers, but this one merits it.

[TacoBell]

I'll second that "Ahhhh...,"

I have 90% of a cake plus a sealed one, and that's not nearly enough. I don't have multiple cakes of many pu'ers, but this one merits it.

I think I just decided what I'm having tomorrow morning. Gonna break open the cake:biggrin:

[Hobbesoxon]

I've seen similar productions to this before. Hai Lang Hao has done this with the Shuang Yi factory. Granted HLH's still indicate that they are HLH productions pressed at other factories, but then why bear the name of the factory pressing it at all? Wouldn't it be a new wrapper at that point, and thus the money saving aspect would be gone? My thoughts are that some factories are willing to wheel and deal concerning their wrappers and third party pressings. If some third party wants to source a really good tea, but would like to save money on the wrapper then it makes perfect sense to me for the factory to try and pass it off as their own. Meanwhile, the third party saves a tiny chunk of change from the wrapper, and it's kind of a win win.

My thoughts are that the tea is probably genuine. The only way to really find out is to try other teas from the factory that pressed this.

I've no problem with using a third-party "guest" factory to produce a cake - that's standard operating procedure if you have some leaves. Xizihao had Mengyang Guoyan produce their 7542 and 8582 cakes in 2007; Nadacha buys leaves from farmers, then gets them pressed by someone; Hailanghao does the same, as you mentioned.

In all of those cases, though, there is no labelling problem. Everything is up-front and easy to understand.

With the Puerh Shop cake, the product description claimed "we called it 'Chengshi Mingxiang'" - they obviously didn't, because that's the name of the original cake from which the wrapper came.

I don't like that kind of representation, because it would be borderline illegal under British trades description rules - primarily because the customer has no idea of the provenance of what it is they're buying.


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[Salsero]

I bought two of these back in May 2007, put them away, and promptly forgot them. I think this is the first time that I have tasted them. Not a blockbuster tea like some of our favs, but sweet, mellow and with a bit of feel in the mouth. Plus ... each cake is individually numbered! So much more personal that way.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Teachat%20linked/Mengyang-Guoyan-Yiwu-Zheng-Shan.jpg

For those who didn't see it then, Bill reviewed it HERE (http://ancientteahorseroad.blogspot.com/2007/04/2007-mengyang-yi-wu-zheng-shan-arbor.html).

[Hobbesoxon]

SotD: 2009 longjing. I miss longjing!

[thanks]

I've no problem with using a third-party "guest" factory to produce a cake - that's standard operating procedure if you have some leaves. Xizihao had Mengyang Guoyan produce their 7542 and 8582 cakes in 2007; Nadacha buys leaves from farmers, then gets them pressed by someone; Hailanghao does the same, as you mentioned.

In all of those cases, though, there is no labelling problem. Everything is up-front and easy to understand.

With the Puerh Shop cake, the product description claimed "we called it 'Chengshi Mingxiang'" - they obviously didn't, because that's the name of the original cake from which the wrapper came.

I don't like that kind of representation, because it would be borderline illegal under British trades description rules - primarily because the customer has no idea of the provenance of what it is they're buying.


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

Yes I think this practice would be illegal in almost all of the western world, that I agree with. I guess my point is that for some reason it doesn't bother me too much, and in this particular case I think the vendor and factory are getting a pretty good deal. The only thing that even irks me slightly about all of this is how much of a good deal are we getting because of the original good deal?

I really loved the comments to your post, and I'm glad you brought it up. I can't think of too many others in our small, but ever growing community to really call these things out for what they are. We must be ever vigilant!

[Hobbesoxon]

That America Hao 904 tea is very nice, though. At $43, it's worth getting one cake!


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

P.s. The name still makes me cry. :crying:

[ouch]

'08 Menghai 0622 (801)

I'm not enjoying this one as much as I used to. It's good tea, but it's starting to lose me.

[thanks]

After having a massive (seriously massive) bowl of hot and spicy (seriously spicy!) ramen at my local ramen shop;
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/1003/tediidx/ramen.jpg
I had some 02 Nanjian Fenghuang tuocha.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/1003/tediidx/fenghuang.jpg

Today was delicious! :w00t:

[Fatman2]

Have not touched this for a long time. It has changed..... no longer the flowery MYC that I knew. The tea soup is now darker. It has grown stronger and more intense. Bitterness hits your palate which later makes your salivary glands work to deliver sweetness at the back of the tongue. Astringency has gone missing. Nice. :)

[netsurfr]

89 Qing Bing Menhai 7542. Way to start a Saturday!

[Hobbesoxon]

Have not touched this for a long time. It has changed..... no longer the flowery MYC that I knew. The tea soup is now darker. It has grown stronger and more intense. Bitterness hits your palate which later makes your salivary glands work to deliver sweetness at the back of the tongue. Astringency has gone missing. Nice. :)

That sounds brilliant, I'll try and find mine.

SotD: Puerh Shop Meiguohao 903 - sweet'n'sour, very clean, a touch of savoury lincang. Nice tea at $15, but not my thing (the sourness).


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[pb2q]

96 7532 Green neifei, from Nadacha. Faultless storage.

Music: ZM Dagar, Todi

[ouch]

'08 Peacock of Menghai

I'm going to get tired of posting this every other day until my wife finds another sheng she likes. :001_rolle

[P_K]

09 Mengku Ancient puerh - collection edition!!!

Has that Mengku flavor but it is sweet and drinkable. Im not sure how many ancient leaves are in this but not bad for the price.

Im imaging something like.......a handfull of leaves perhaps. Sir I only put about 5 leaves in this one.....thats okay. Sir I forgot to put any ancient leaves in this one....is it setting next to a bing that has ancient leaves?....yes....okay thats fine. :badger:

[arghblech]

07 Menghai Chen Yun from the pass around.

Pretty good. Light bitterness and a touch of astringency. Nice strong base. Not sweet.

[Salsero]

Have not touched this for a long time. It has changed..... no longer the flowery MYC that I knew. The tea soup is now darker. It has grown stronger and more intense. Bitterness hits your palate which later makes your salivary glands work to deliver sweetness at the back of the tongue. Astringency has gone missing. Nice. :) I take it you are speaking of this cake:
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Tea/2007-Mengku-Mu-Ye-Chun-001.jpg
I last tasted mine in April and it was delightful and easy to drink now, with good character. I may also need to revisit this one as it seems to be coming along nicely. In looking around a bit on the internet, it looks like the Singapore climate is great for gently aging tea ... warm temperature with consistent humidity in the 70% range all year. My tea is in a pumidor where I try to replicate something like those conditions.

I see I also have a 2007 Mengku “Mu Ye Chun” 002 Raw Tea Cake of Yongde. The name suggests that it is exactly the same tea, just the second pressing, but the wrapper is very different.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Tea/2007-Mengku-Mu-Ye-Chun-002.jpg

Apparently I haven't tasted this one yet. Does anyone know why these two look so different and if they are really just the first and second runs of essentially the same material?

[thanks]

I take it you are speaking of this cake:
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Tea/2007-Mengku-Mu-Ye-Chun-001.jpg
I last tasted mine in April and it was delightful and easy to drink now, with good character. I may also need to revisit this one as it seems to be coming along nicely. In looking around a bit on the internet, it looks like the Singapore climate is great for gently aging tea ... warm temperature with consistent humidity in the 70% range all year. My tea is in a pumidor where I try to replicate something like those conditions.

I see I also have a 2007 Mengku “Mu Ye Chun” 002 Raw Tea Cake of Yongde. The name suggests that it is exactly the same tea, just the second pressing, but the wrapper is very different.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Tea/2007-Mengku-Mu-Ye-Chun-002.jpg

Apparently I haven't tasted this one yet. Does anyone know why these two look so different and if they are really just the first and second runs of essentially the same material?

Same area of material, but the 002 blend contains more leaves with less tips with the idea of longer storage in mind.

[Chicken Enchilada]

This isn't a SOTD but, Scott has some new "Yunnan Sourcing" beengs up on his site. This one has a particularly nice wrapper:
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y101/teefanatiker/yns_rcx/2009_yns_youle_bao.jpg
I'd buy it just for the wrapper, but it's $32. It's more than I'd like to pay for a 2009 tea, but I wonder how it tastes.

[Salsero]

That is a stunning wrapper, Chicken Enchilada. The bamboo is beautiful: Just a few brush strokes and there they are!

I am certainly enjoying this sample from Nada. It is sweet, floral, altogether a pleasure to drink now. Does that mean it won't age well? Since I only have enough for one or two more sessions, I guess I am not too concerned.
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Teachat%20linked/2007-12-Gentlemen-YIWU-Wei-Zhong-We.jpg

[Hobbesoxon]

SotD: 2009 Puerh Shop "Meiguohao 902" - definitely Nannuo in its floral character. Great for $13 (sweet, leathery), but pretty rough after a few infusions.


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[Fatman2]

I take it you are speaking of this cake:
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Tea/2007-Mengku-Mu-Ye-Chun-001.jpg
I last tasted mine in April and it was delightful and easy to drink now, with good character. I may also need to revisit this one as it seems to be coming along nicely. In looking around a bit on the internet, it looks like the Singapore climate is great for gently aging tea ... warm temperature with consistent humidity in the 70% range all year. My tea is in a pumidor where I try to replicate something like those conditions.

I see I also have a 2007 Mengku “Mu Ye Chun” 002 Raw Tea Cake of Yongde. The name suggests that it is exactly the same tea, just the second pressing, but the wrapper is very different.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Tea/2007-Mengku-Mu-Ye-Chun-002.jpg

Apparently I haven't tasted this one yet. Does anyone know why these two look so different and if they are really just the first and second runs of essentially the same material?

Yup. That's the one. Nice drinkable beeng. The 002 is what the taiwanese like. They believe that the absence of the tips make the tea more ageable. There is actually an 003 too.

[arghblech]

2008 Xiaguan Happy Tuo

I really like the Happy Tuo. What a nice tea.

[Hobbesoxon]

Nada called round yesterday! Fun for all the family.

Teawise: 1930s Liu'an, 1970s wulong, and a 2009 Dayuling from Dr. Kim (originally from Teamasters). Delicious.


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[ouch]

Nada called round yesterday! Fun for all the family.

Teawise: 1930s Liu'an, 1970s wulong, and a 2009 Dayuling from Dr. Kim (originally from Teamasters). Delicious.


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

:yikes:

[ouch]

7532 (801)

Perhaps the best all around Menghai I've tried.

[netsurfr]

04 Menhai Superior Grade sample.

[Salsero]

It took me a couple days, but I finally finished off the session of 12 Gentlemen YIWU "Wei Zhong Wei." Total infusions were somewhere in the neighborhood of 15. I got to like it more and more as it went along.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u320/salsero_de_te/Teachat%20linked/12-Gentlemen-YIWU-Wei-Zhong-Wei.jpg

[Scotto]

2008 Douji Dadou pico-brick.

Very low toned and mushroomy. Solid tea.

[Chicken Enchilada]

'08 XG 8100

A weak, simplistic tea. I enjoyed it anyway, but I won't be getting a cake of it.

[netsurfr]

It took me a couple days, but I finally finished off the session of 12 Gentlemen YIWU "Wei Zhong Wei." Total infusions were somewhere in the neighborhood of 15. I got to like it more and more as it went along.



Beautiful photo as usual Salsero!
Thanks for taking the time to put pictures like these on the site.

[ouch]

'08 XG 8100

A weak, simplistic tea. I enjoyed it anyway, but I won't be getting a cake of it.

I have a sealed bing of that, and based on the reviews I've read, I don't expect to be opening it any time soon.

[Hobbesoxon]

SotD: 2009 Meiguohao 901. Nice - tons of Menghai, but clean and good. Lincang kicks in later on.


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[ouch]

'06 Xiaguan Cang Er tuo

If you can brew so as to minimize the bitterness of the early infusions, it's not bad once it hits its stride. Otherwise, it may lose you quickly.

[ouch]

And a happy belated birthday to Hobbes. A cup in your honor.


I hope he appreciates the extraordinary effort we went through to arrange a lunar landing for his birthday.

[Hobbesoxon]

Woo, thanks!


P.s. Someone care to sell/trade a Puerh Shop Meiguohao 901? I didn't get one, and want one!

[netsurfr]

And a happy belated birthday to Hobbes. A cup in your honor.


I hope he appreciates the extraordinary effort we went through to arrange a lunar landing for his birthday.

Happy belated Hobbes.

[Hobbesoxon]

Happy belated Hobbes.

Thx!

[Scotto]

Tasteless 2006 CNNP dreck

[netsurfr]

Tasteless 2006 CNNP dreck

Living up to the Hobbes categorization of "where pu-erh goes to die."

[arghblech]

2008 Xiaguan Bao Yan Jin Cha tuo.

I think this is also called the FT mushroom tuo. I was going to take some from the tea pass until I realized that the wrapper and box looked very familiar. Turns out I had this and a Happy tuo sitting up in my pu closet.

So I've hacked into mine for a taste. 9.5g into my 150mL gaiwan was a pretty darn nice amount for this tea. Piny smoke/campfire and nice underlying bitterness/astringency. Not too much of either but the bitterness was still hanging about 9 infusions in (I found that pretty remarkable).

[Hobbesoxon]

SotD: 1930s Liu'an from when Nada visited. I've been background-infusing this tea for four days now, and it's still giving me a smooth, woody brew with a rushing chaqi, despite being light-brown in colour. Amazing!


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[netsurfr]

Have to display my ignorance again...
What does "background infusing" mean?
I have not run across the term before.

[arghblech]

I think, in this context at least, letting the tea steep for hours (or days) while you do other things or drink other teas.

[netsurfr]

1960's Wangzi Raw loose pu-erh. Pure dark amber goodness.

[arghblech]

2006 Arbor Yinhao tuo

Blech. Good thing it was cheap :001_rolle

[thanks]

First time posting in here in a little while. I revisited tonight the first full beeng I've ever purchased from back in 06, the 2006 Six Famous Tea Mountain company Yi Wu Millenial Tea Tree. It's much much better than I remember. Pretty smooth, dark yellow, slight ku on the finish, a nice warming cha qi, and a good sweetness throughout. It's not worth the $34 being charged on eBay, but it's definitely decent tea.

Also I revisited Nada's 09 Plantation Nannuo, and I'm thinking about buying more if it's not sold out. I knew the bland taste and other problems that I had with it the first time around were due to it's freshness. After drying out this one is most certainly a winner, regardless of price, but especially more so considering it.

[Hobbesoxon]

SotD: 1998 Kunming iron bing, originally sold by Jing Teahop, and kindly provided by Dr. Kim. Delicious and woody, with plenty of youth remaining in the finish, probably preserved due to that iron compression.


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[Shogun89]

Hello everyone, some of you probably know me from TeaChat and I thought I was missing out by not having an account here so for those that dont know me, Hello.:001_smile

Anyway, here is a review of the

2009 Xiaguan FT8603-9

Every time I walked into my pu closet I was being enticed by the Xiaguan FT8603-9. It has an incredibly potent aroma. So I decided to grab one of the cakes today, and give it a run.
Upon opening the wrapper you get hit by the smell, very smokey with some sweetness to it, I personally love it. The leaves are fairly nice, very similar to a 7542 blend from Dayi. The brew is quite dark orange/amber. It is a very powerful tea, defiantly smokey so dont get this if smokey tea arnt your thing, I love em so this cake is great for me. Overall I just love everything about this cake from the attractive price to the quality, just very good. I believe they should be very good for aging and they have quite a punch. I will defiantly be buying more of these at some point. Highly recommended.

[netsurfr]

Shogun89 -
Welcome to B&B! Glad to have another pu enthusiast in the group. I have always appreciated you contributions on teachat.
I have been eyeing that tea for the web store but have not pulled the trigger on any yet.

[TacoBell]

Ah....found you! A big welcome to you Shogun. Look forward to your contributions :biggrin:

[Shogun89]

Thanks for the welcomes guys. I am glad to be here with some of the finest pu addicts. Cheers!

[stopbeingacompletist]

i broke open this cake today for the first time :

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y101/teefanatiker/yong%20de/2008_yongdezy_mangfei_500g_bao.jpg

it's a pretty young and light tasting pu erh tea imo. yong de tea factory. brewed the tea in a large gaiwan. it's okay, i guess. nothing mindblowing.

on to some my other unopend cakes in the days to come. will post them here.

[ouch]

First off, thanks to Ian (Doc4) for pointing out that I shouldn't refer to this sotd as a post-op session. :001_tongu

'05 Tuo Mein PoisoningXG Cang 'Er Tuo

I'm back!

[P_K]

Hello everyone, some of you probably know me from TeaChat and I thought I was missing out by not having an account here so for those that dont know me, Hello.:001_smile

Hey......what took you so long! :001_tongu

[silvertip beard]

2008 FT mushroom tuo.

Flavors of the Forest Floor. Yum!

:yinyang:

[Salsero]

Dude, good to see you here ... the only trick is figuring out who is who ... like Tony Shlongini is the grown up version of Ouch after he became a made man and PuerhKing is P K after he learned to spell whole words. You may be the youngest guy in here ... all the others are shaving already.

[_JP_]

Hey Shogun, maybe you can get in on the next round of the Tea Pass (http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=95423).

I finally had some puerh today for the first time in a couple of weeks. I've been checking out several oolongs during that time. This puerh is some nondescript stuff that I picked up at a local Japanese bakery and tea shop. No information about the tea at all, they just called it puerh. It's a nice looking loose leaf tea with a lot of gold and black color. But it doesn't taste like puerh. It does taste just like some Yunnan black tea that I have. But nothing special, and a little bit weaker. I'll experiment with it a couple more times and see what I can coax out of it.

[Shogun89]

Good to see soo many familiar faces! And Salsero, I think you are correct in that I am the youngest here, gonna be 18 soon though!! Though I have already embarked on the wonderful world of shaving, I just keep it simple though, haha.

[Chicken Enchilada]

Good to see soo many familiar faces! And Salsero, I think you are correct in that I am the youngest here, gonna be 18 soon though!! Though I have already embarked on the wonderful world of shaving, I just keep it simple though, haha.

I'm a young blood also (18). Though, I had a beard before most the kids in my school even had peach fuzz. If you haven't converted to wet shaving yet, do it. Just watch out for the ADs.



2009 Xiaguan FT8603-9

Highly recommended.

Wow, that's cheap for an FT. I'll have to get one with my next order.

[Hobbesoxon]

SotD of the Day: 2004 Yangqinghao "Chawang" (originally from Houde). Amazing: tons of chaqi, thick texture, a vibrant feeling on the lips and tongue, and a cooling sensation left behind - but absolutely no flavour or aroma of any kind. I had to check that I had not lost my sense of smell by sniffing the leaves!

Thanks to KCJ for this sample - I wonder what happened to it? Fascinating!
:chinese:


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[Chicken Enchilada]

08 XG FT Nan Zhao Yu
This is the second session I've had with this one. I was dissapointed at first, but then remembered it takes a while for XGs to fully break up. It didn't get really good until the fourth infusion. It has good "throatiness", I can still feel it 30 minutes later. Makes me feel giddy. Overall I enjoyed it more this time than the first time I had it. I'm a sucker for cool wrappers and Nei Fei, and this one has both.

[ouch]

08 XG FT Nan Zhao Yu
I'm a sucker for cool wrappers and Nei Fei, and this one has both.

I have one of these, and I'll have to pop it open soon and try it. Love the wrapper- why doesn't every wrapper have the year on it?
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y101/teefanatiker/xiaguan/2008_xg_nzyb_bao.jpg

[netsurfr]

i broke open this cake today for the first time :

it's a pretty young and light tasting pu erh tea imo. yong de tea factory. brewed the tea in a large gaiwan. it's okay, i guess. nothing mindblowing.

on to some my other unopend cakes in the days to come. will post them here.

Just wanted to say, welcome to B&B where some of the best "pu heads" hang out." At least, that's what we keep telling ourselves to stroke our own egos.

Glad to have you aboard!

Cheers,
Steve

[netsurfr]

Good to see soo many familiar faces! And Salsero, I think you are correct in that I am the youngest here, gonna be 18 soon though!! Though I have already embarked on the wonderful world of shaving, I just keep it simple though, haha.

You have a wonderful knowledge of pu-erh based on watching your posts on teachat. I wish I had gotten started at your age. You will be a teamaster extraordinaire by the time you reach my age.

[Hobbesoxon]

I have one of these [2008 Xiaguan FT Nanzhao Yu], and I'll have to pop it open soon and try it. Love the wrapper- why doesn't every wrapper have the year on it?

I really want to know what this one's like, so am eagerly awaiting your notes! This was the only Nanzhao of which Scott didn't sell a sample, so I haven't tried it yet. The other 2008 Nanzhao (http://half-dipper.blogspot.com/2008/09/2008-xiaguan-nanzhao.html) was really lovely, I thought - fruity and solid.

Those cakes are really great value, if you like them dark, sugary, and perhaps a little tweaked. I love them longtime! 21 dollar!

Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[ouch]

Anyone try this?
http://www.puerhshop.com/images/bulang_mountain_yun.jpg

I know that Douji has been met by mixed reviews recently. It's a very pretty looking cake, http://www.puerhshop.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=64_70&products_id=839 but I'd like to hear some opinions before I commit.

I didn't think I would enjoy drinking sheng as much as I do during the summer (if you can call this a summer this year). Admittedly, I'm not drinking as much baoyan or other heavy, wintery blends as the dark, meaty, smoky flavors fare better in cold weather, but the realization that pu'er is a year round drink has been something of a revelation. :thumbup1:

[Salsero]

Wow, that is one pretty cake!

[ouch]

Wow, that is one pretty cake!

Sure is, but looks can be deceiving.
http://www.puerhshop.com/images/bulang_mountain_yun6.jpg

[Hobbesoxon]

By sheer chance, I just bought one of those from Puerh Shop. No samples this time, but I'm happy enough with Douji products to break my no-sample, no-cake rule and buy a bing. :)

Huzzzzzah: PS have restocked the Meiguohao 901, which I love. The best $10 non-Dayi cake out there this year, in my opinion, by a long shot!


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[Hobbesoxon]

SotD: 2007 Chen Guanghe Tang "Hongyin". Small leaves, dark leaves. Apparently, this tea has been made from a blend that Chen believes is close to that of the 1950s Hongyin [red mark]. It's nice - but not really my thing. I appreciate its obvious quality, but I can't get excited about the Frankenstein-like blend. It has too many opposing forces pulling in opposite directions.


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[Hobbesoxon]

I didn't think I would enjoy drinking sheng as much as I do during the summer (if you can call this a summer this year). Admittedly, I'm not drinking as much baoyan or other heavy, wintery blends as the dark, meaty, smoky flavors fare better in cold weather, but the realization that pu'er is a year round drink has been something of a revelation. :thumbup1:

Interestingly enough, hardcore followers of Traditional Chinese Medicine believe that shengpu is "cold", and particularly suited for summer-time. The same folks would recommend "warm" teas, such as hongcha, roasted wulong, and shupu for winter-time.

I'm inclined to be more relaxed in my drinking regulations, though :chinese:


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[arghblech]

Huzzzzzah: PS have restocked the Meiguohao 901, which I love. The best $10 non-Dayi cake out there this year, in my opinion, by a long shot!

I can't seem to find this cake.

EDIT: Nevermind. I found it!

[arghblech]

2006 Menghai 7582

My brewing skills were lacking today. The early infusions weren't very good but things got a lot better after infusion 5.

I ordered some of this year's American Hao. I'm interested to try it.

[thanks]

2006 Menghai 7582

My brewing skills were lacking today. The early infusions weren't very good but things got a lot better after infusion 5.

I ordered some of this year's American Hao. I'm interested to try it.

I've had similar experience with that tea. Might be both of our brewing skills, but I'm leaning towards the tea as I trust us a little bit more :tongue_sm

[Shogun89]

Meiguohao 901

I cant find this cake at all on PS, could someone please post a link.

[Salsero]

It's the Amurca hao - tea of the brave, beverage of the free (902 edition). (http://half-dipper.blogspot.com/2009/07/2009-meiguohao-902.html)

Hobbes likes to keep us on our toes.

[Hobbesoxon]

SotD: 2003 Lincang, private pressing, commission by a pu'er vendor in Prague - sample kindly sent by TA of tuochatea.blogspot.com.

A good tour of Lincang in the opening, being filled with savoury grain and wide, beany flavours. Later on, it cracked apart, and turned into plantation roughness and a sour finish - suggesting a blend of good leaves and "filler".

I thoroughly recommend seeking out good examples of single mountains, if possible, just for the purposes of coming to understand each different area. Puerh Shop and Nadacha do some great single-mountain maocha that I've found to be very informative!


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[Nerval]

Would be very interested in your Nada cakes... sent you PM but no answer... do drop me a line [email protected]

[ouch]

Meiguohao 901

I cant find this cake at all on PS, could someone please post a link.

Seem seem salabeem-
http://www.puerhshop.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_114&products_id=854

[ouch]

Today I needed a smoky sheng, so I picked a bruiser with a ton of tobacco- the '08 Xiaguan FT mushroom tuo. I perceived no flavor whatsoever- no tobacco, no leather, no smoke, nothing.

There was, however, a valid reason for this puzzling situation- I had it alongside a very special breakfast featuring Early's sausage, which is probably the only food substance on Earth whose flavor is not enhanced by the addition of bacon. It was so overpowering, it rendered the baoyan tuo virtually tasteless. :w00t:

It reminded me of a similar situation I experienced in the early (no pun intended) 1990's. I was at a wine tasting and had just taken a bite of a particularly powerful blue cheese. The next wine up was the amazing '90 Ch. Montrose. Instantly I could no longer taste the cheese. :001_tt1:

[Hobbesoxon]

Today I needed a smoky sheng, so I picked a bruiser with a ton of tobacco- the '08 Xiaguan FT mushroom tuo. I perceived no flavor whatsoever- no tobacco, no leather, no smoke, nothing.

There was, however, a valid reason for this puzzling situation- I had it alongside a very special breakfast featuring Early's sausage, which is probably the only food substance on Earth whose flavor is not enhanced by the addition of bacon. It was so overpowering, it rendered the baoyan tuo virtually tasteless. :w00t:

It reminded me of a similar situation I experienced in the early (no pun intended) 1990's. I was at a wine tasting and had just taken a bite of a particularly powerful blue cheese. The next wine up was the amazing '90 Ch. Montrose. Instantly I could no longer taste the cheese. :001_tt1:

Hah, I just finished writing an article about how a chili sandwich caused me to think the Yangqinghao Chawang had no flavour :001_smile


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[Shogun89]

So it seems like the American Hao 0901 has gotten good marks so far. Anyone here try it yet, what are your thoughts? All thoughts welcome cause I'm about to push the button for a tong.
Thanks!

[arghblech]

So it seems like the American Hao 0901 has gotten good marks so far. Anyone here try it yet, what are your thoughts? All thoughts welcome cause I'm about to push the button for a tong.
Thanks!

I grabbed two beeng of that with an order. I'm looking forward to hearing other opinions.

[Hobbesoxon]

SotD: more Meiguohao 901. Slightly less awesome than last time, but it's still superb tea for ten of your meiguo bucks.

I've bought three cakes and was contemplating making it up to a tong - but after today, I'll stick at three.


Toodlepip,

Hobbs

[_JP_]

SotD: more Meiguohao 901. Slightly less awesome than last time, but it's still superb tea for ten of your meiguo bucks.


I'm adding that one to the list.

Can you post a picture of the charcoal burner that you mention in your blog? I'm considering getting something like that for sessions out on the patio.

[Hobbesoxon]

I'm adding that one to the list.

Can you post a picture of the charcoal burner that you mention in your blog? I'm considering getting something like that for sessions out on the patio.

Hmm! I don't own it - Nada brought it with him. I'll look through the photos that my wife took, but I don't remember there being one of the burner!

It was solid, immensely heavy, rounded, and had little doors in the north and south faces. A lovely piece. I think Aaron Fisher can obtain them through whatever-that-internet-shop/service-was-called-where-he-obtains-teastuff-from-Taiwan-for-you (but I can't vouch for that service, not having used it).


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[ouch]

'08 Xiaguan 7653

This is not a great sheng by any stretch of the imagination, but it has become one of my favorite inexpensive pu'ers. The flavors are authentic and proper, and I'm almost always happy when I select it.

[P_K]

'08 Xiaguan Happy Tuo -

This is a solid tea. A hint of floral and some tobacco notes. Whats not to like?


Here is a pic of my recent purchase from netsurfr's tea store. I finally have a scale!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k112/wilbrihow/IMG_2009.jpg

[arghblech]

The scale has really helped me to brew more consistently. I don't obsess over the amount but I do log it in my notes so I can attempt to more closely replicate a good session or avoid a lousy one.

[ouch]

'08 Xiaguan Happy Tuo -

This is a solid tea. A hint of floral and some tobacco notes. Whats not to like?


Here is a pic of my recent purchase from netsurfr's tea store. I finally have a scale!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k112/wilbrihow/IMG_2009.jpg

That's funny. Every time I correspond with Netsurfr he says "I even have your scale." I never ordered one or even told him to reserve one. Finally, I figured it out- he's chipping away at me until I break down and order one. I think he may know best, as I'll probably get one with my next order. :lol:


Nice haul!

[TacoBell]

Funny...I was just about to post a SOTD....that is Scale of the Day. Interested in how you like yours PK. Other opinions on scales?

Note to Steve: reserve one pending PK's opinion along with one of those pretty Nan Zhao cakes :thumbup1:

[thanks]

Funny...I was just about to post a SOTD....that is Scale of the Day. Interested in how you like yours PK. Other opinions on scales?

Note to Steve: reserve one pending PK's opinion along with one of those pretty Nan Zhao cakes :thumbup1:

I have that same scale, and it's great. Fairly accurate too, so if I want to replicate a good session using 5.3g, I can do just that. Batteries only last about three months with solid use, and it takes two AAA's.

[P_K]

The scale has really helped me to brew more consistently. I don't obsess over the amount but I do log it in my notes so I can attempt to more closely replicate a good session or avoid a lousy one.

Yeah exactly. I have done it by the visual method for four and a half years. I find a bit of resistance in changing but I have already seen its usefulness. Not only in what you said but it is also going to keep me from wasting tea by using too much. In fairly short order it will pay for itself. I would recommend it.


That's funny. Every time I correspond with Netsurfr he says "I even have your scale." I never ordered one or even told him to reserve one. Finally, I figured it out- he's chipping away at me until I break down and order one. I think he may know best, as I'll probably get one with my next order. :lol:


Nice haul!

Yeah I guess you should concede to the inevitable. I think he knew you would see the wisdom. :biggrin: I did try that Menghai 7532 from the box pass on your consistant recommendation and now I have a bing!


Funny...I was just about to post a SOTD....that is Scale of the Day. Interested in how you like yours PK. Other opinions on scales?

Note to Steve: reserve one pending PK's opinion along with one of those pretty Nan Zhao cakes :thumbup1:

Well there is your answer. And yes that Zan Zhao is pretty...inside and out!

[netsurfr]

That's funny. Every time I correspond with Netsurfr he says "I even have your scale." I never ordered one or even told him to reserve one. Finally, I figured it out- he's chipping away at me until I break down and order one. I think he may know best, as I'll probably get one with my next order. :lol:


Nice haul!
:lol: :blushing: :lol:

[ouch]

'07 Xizhihao dragon phoenix

Atsa nice. Simple and satisfying.

[Scotto]

Whew. Back from a tea-less week of beach vacation. Interestingly, despite having three young kids, I have been more or less sickness free for the past year, despite my wife and kids being continually ravaged. A week of no pu, and suddenly I have a cold. Coincidence?

Anyway, today I am back in action with some 2008 Xiaguan "Chinese classic story that you would know if you weren't a filthy foreigner barbarian" tuo*. Delicious stewed fruits - one of my faves.





*Dream of the Red Chamber

[arghblech]

2009 American Hao 901

My cakes haven't arrived but while rifling through my box of samples I founda freebie from Puerh Shop that I'd forgotten about.

I had 5 infusions of less than 10 seconds. The first two were somewhat sour and bitter but this faded pretty fast. Active soup with a nice brightness and a solid, if unspectacular, forest base. The longer and later infusions showed some depth and a very long life. I'm currently on infusion 12 (or so) and still getting nice tea.

I don't think I'm going to regret my purchase of this one. I hope the 902 is nice too!

[Shogun89]

2009 American Hao 901

My cakes haven't arrived but while rifling through my box of samples I founda freebie from Puerh Shop that I'd forgotten about.

I had 5 infusions of less than 10 seconds. The first two were somewhat sour and bitter but this faded pretty fast. Active soup with a nice brightness and a solid, if unspectacular, forest base. The longer and later infusions showed some depth and a very long life. I'm currently on infusion 12 (or so) and still getting nice tea.

I don't think I'm going to regret my purchase of this one. I hope the 902 is nice too!



Good to hear. I have a tong of it on the way. Cant wait!:thumbup1:

[arghblech]

My wife would kill me if tongs started showing up :biggrin: I'm lucky to be able to grab a cake or two of anything.

[Shogun89]

Haha, my mom always gets angry with me but whatever. . .

[netsurfr]

LOL... looks like you need to start storing your pu at work. Ha, ha, ha. Might as well spread the addiction around.

[netsurfr]

Haha, my mom always gets angry with me but whatever. . .

Just make her some tea and explain that there are much worse things to be getting addicted to...

[ouch]

Anyway, today I am back in action with some 2008 Xiaguan "Chinese classic story that you would know if you weren't a filthy foreigner barbarian" tuo*. Delicious stewed fruits - one of my faves.

Good to hear, as I just ordered one.

Speaking of which..........

[ouch]

Just make her some tea and explain that there are much worse things to be getting addicted to...

.........Shouldn't you be busy bagging up my order? :lol:

[netsurfr]

.........Shouldn't you be busy bagging up my order? :lol:

:lol: :lol: :lol: Yes sir, right away sir! By your command! :lol: :lol: :lol:

[kimble22]

Just make her some tea and explain that there are much worse things to be getting addicted to...

True, but then she might start rifling through your tea. :blush:

Tonight a 70's/80's liu an. Some major storage goings-on, for the first 2 infusions, but became something nice for numbers 3-5, then faded. Perfect for a shorter session.

[Shogun89]

2008 Nan Jian Tulin 902
http://cgi.ebay.com/Nan-Jian-Tulin-902-Certified-Organic-Raw-Pu-erh-tea_W0QQitemZ350093569465QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_Def aultDomain_0?hash=item518333edb9&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262

This is over all a pretty nice cake, it starts off pretty slow (weak) But by the third infusion once all the leaves have opened up, it really picked up. A nice sweet aroma, good balanced flavor with a nice amount of acidity. Over all, not too bad, seems to be of good materials, cant say about its endurance, as Im still working on it. Worth a try.

[TacoBell]

Guoyan Nannuo Mt. Arbor Old Tree 2006
http://cgi.ebay.com/Guoyan-Nannuo-Mt-Arbor-Old-Tree-Pu-erh-2006-357g-Raw_W0QQitemZ220323919604QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_Def aultDomain_0?hash=item334c5436f4&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262

This is my first foray into the world of Nannuo. I like it. Seems slow to open, though I think that may have to do with a short second steeping. Astringency is mild and flavors nicely melded. Perhaps that has something to do with it being a bit older. Look forward to the rest of the cake.

[Chicken Enchilada]

2008 XG Mushroom Tuo

Hobbes' described this one as being similar to pipe tobacco. I've never smoked a cigar/pipe tobacco before, but I imagine it being similar to this mushroom tuo. The dry leaves have a strong, dark tobacco-y aroma, and the aroma of the wet leaves tingles the nostrils. It has that tobacco taste (what I presume to be tobacco), and a lingering smokiness that is ohhh so good. I'm not good at describing nuances; I'll leave that to the professionals. I'll be getting more of these babies. :001_smile

By the by, I'm never drinking pu on an empty stomach again.

[ouch]

:lol: :lol: :lol: Yes sir, right away sir! By your command! :lol: :lol: :lol:

:lol:
I kid, I kid.

Rummaging through a drawer, I found a sample of some "feet of crab" sheng I've been avoiding like the plague. And for good reason- sour and bitter. Bleh.

Marketing ploy to move bad tea?

[thanks]

By the by, I'm never drinking pu on an empty stomach again.

Ha! I think most of us learn that lesson the hard way at one time or another.

[arghblech]

Ha! I think most of us learn that lesson the hard way at one time or another.

I do it every day. I almost always have tea before I've eaten anything. Is that unusual? Why?

[P_K]

I don't know about anyone else but if I drink a lot of tea on an empty stomach my sugar levels plummet and I feel like hell. Spend the next few hours getting back to normal.

[netsurfr]

:lol:
I kid, I kid.


I knew that you were kidding for a fact but some overwhelming power drew me to the basement to fill your order anyway. OK, it was the wonderful scent of the tea calling to me to come down and visit. :lol:

[Chicken Enchilada]

I do it every day. I almost always have tea before I've eaten anything. Is that unusual? Why?
I sometimes get stomach aches if I drink too much sheng on an empty stomach.

[Hobbesoxon]

GV came to visit over the week-end - I'm drinking the leftovers! Today, infusions 20+ of the 1960s Yellow Mark. Amazing longevity.


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[netsurfr]

GV came to visit over the week-end - I'm drinking the leftovers! Today, infusions 20+ of the 1960s Yellow Mark. Amazing longevity.


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

Oh my! 60's Yellow Mark. Sensory overload just contemplating this one... :tongue_sm

[Hobbesoxon]

Oh my! 60's Yellow Mark. Sensory overload just contemplating this one... :tongue_sm

Haha - I just went to Houde to see if it was still available, and apparently the 10g sample that GV provided for us to drink costs $157! Insane. I had no idea it was so expensive.


Phew.

[ouch]

Haha - I just went to Houde to see if it was still available, and apparently the 10g sample that GV provided for us to drink costs $157! Insane. I had no idea it was so expensive.


Phew.

That reminds me of an old episode of Taxi where Reverend Jim proudly announces that instead of squandering his newfound fortune, he invested in a collectable quarter worth $5,000. When someone asks to see it, he fumbles through his pockets, looks at the cup of coffee in his hand, then whips around and gasps at the coffee vending machine, saying "I better make this cup last."


'08 Peacock of Menghai

I normally don't associate Menghai with floral or fruity flavors, but this one has them in abundance. A lighter and delicate, if atypical, Menghai. :tongue_sm

[Hobbesoxon]

The yellow-mark itself is amazing: deep red, even after 30 infusions, and filled with heavy sweet-wood flavours. The chaqi is heavily narcotic. Amazing stuff, but something I couldn't drink alone - you'd really need good company to enjoy this one, or it'd be a huge waste.

Today: a 2009 lucha from a Chinese colleague - his "hometown" tea, which has no real name, though it comes from the Fuliang area of Jiangxi Province. Grassy, fresh - it reminds me of Xinyang Maojian while looking rather like Zhuyeqin from Emeishan in Sichuan.


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[Scotto]

2008 Menghai Peacock of Mengsong.

This cake must have been pressed by a refugee from Xiaguan; it resists loosening up in the gaiwan even after many infusions. Nice cooling sensation, floral, chewy. I am enjoying my cake very much.

[Chicken Enchilada]

801 Menghai 7532

Awesome. This stuff has some kick. The combination of that familiar Menghai mushroom taste, and a bit of citrus makes for a delicious soup. It has what I believe to be good huigan (not quite sure what it exactly is). The citrus really ties everything up for me. Good stuff.

[ouch]

801 Menghai 7532

Awesome. This stuff has some kick. The combination of that familiar Menghai mushroom taste, and a bit of citrus makes for a delicious soup. It has what I believe to be good huigan (not quite sure what it exactly is). The citrus really ties everything up for me. Good stuff.

One of my favorites from Menghai. Of all the "numbered" recipes, this is the one to get.

[netsurfr]

2008 Menghai Peacock of Mengsong.

This cake must have been pressed by a refugee from Xiaguan; it resists loosening up in the gaiwan even after many infusions.

Visions of the guy with the jackhammer standing over the cake come to mind! :lol: :001_rolle :lol:

[silvertip beard]

08 stone-pressed yiwu:
light tight smokey sweet
:yinyang:

[arghblech]

I just broke up about a third of a 1997 Xiaguan Tibetan Flame brick. It would have been easier to just stuff it in the blender :mad3:

I really hope I didn't destroy it.

[Hobbesoxon]

Background brewing the 1960s Yellow Mark from Saturday, and it's still a rich red and delivering tons of thick wood and heavy chaqi.

Foreground brewing the 2008 Xiaguan FT Baoyan Yincha [a.k.a. mushroom of love] - sharp, smoky, savoury, and as delicious as ever.


Toodlepip,

Hobbes

[_JP_]

Background brewing the 1960s Yellow Mark from Saturday, and it's still a rich red and delivering tons of thick wood and heavy chaqi.


That's gotta be the Eternitea.

[Hobbesoxon]

That's gotta be the Eternitea.

NooOoOoOooOo replacement of the suffix "-ty" with the word "tea" NooOoOoOooOO


(Irrational pet peeve of mine!)

[ouch]

'08 XGFT Happy Happy Joy Joy tuo

I've been picking at this little tuo for about a year, and it's still good. Very easygoing for a Fei Tai blend.

[Scotto]

2008 Xiaguan "Exquisite Elegance"

One of my favorites from 2008 - Baoyan that went to finishing school