Shu Pu'er 2022 in lime from the Kaishunhao plant

Shu Pu'er in lime from "Kaishunhao" (开顺号): harvest 2022

The world of Chinese tea is rich in both centuries-old traditions and bold experiments. One fascinating example of modern tea art is Shu Pu'er, encased in lime peel. Shu Pu'er (熟普洱, shú pǔ'ěr) is a post-fermented tea from the Yunnan province. Unlike its "green" cousin, Sheng Pu'er, which naturally matures for decades, Shu Pu'er undergoes an accelerated fermentation process (vodui – 渥堆), which simulates years of aging. This process gives the tea its characteristic dark infusion, a smooth, often earthy or woody flavor, and reduces astringency. Shu Pu'er is prized for its softness, warming properties, and beneficial effects on digestion.

Kaishunhao Factory (开顺号)

Kaishunhao is a renowned pu-erh producer in Yunnan, producing both Sheng and Shu pu-erh. The very fact that they produce such an unusual product as lime-infused pu-erh tea speaks to the company's commitment to innovation and the search for new flavor combinations.

2022 harvest in lime

This tea is a unique product:

1. Raw Material: We use Shu Pu'er, the raw material for which is dated July 28, 2022.
2. Form: Tea leaves are placed inside dried lime peel (or another similar citrus fruit), forming a small ball. The peel is on the outside, and the pressed shu pu-erh tea is inside.
3. Aging: Nearly three years have passed since the tea was harvested. While this isn't a particularly long time for pu-erh (which can be stored and improved for decades), this aging allows the tea to "settle" after fermentation, smooth out harsh notes, and begin to develop a deeper flavor.
4. Concept: The idea of encasing pu-erh tea in citrus peel (mandarin oranges, also known as "Gan Pu" or "Chen Pi Pu-erh," are often used) is to enhance the aromas and flavors. The essential oils in the peel gradually penetrate the tea leaves, while the tea itself absorbs the citrus notes.

Aroma and taste

• Aroma: When dry, the tea reveals a bright, fresh lime aroma intertwined with the deeper, earthy, woody notes of Shu Pu'er. When steeped, the aroma develops more fully, adding warm, sweet undertones.
• Flavor: This infusion combines the classic smoothness and softness of Shu Pu'er (notes of wood, nuts, and light sweetness) with the refreshing acidity and citrus tartness of lime. The citrus note adds a lively touch to the traditional Pu'er flavor, making it lighter and more drinkable.

Brewing

To brew this tea, you typically break off a piece, capturing both the tea and some lime zest. The proportions can be adjusted to suit your taste. Recommended:

1. Rinsing: Pour boiling water (~95-100°C) over the tea for a few seconds and drain. This will "wake up" the tea and remove any dust.
2. Brewing: Pour boiling water over the tea again. The steeping time for the first few infusions can be short (15-30 seconds), gradually increasing for subsequent infusions. The tea can be steeped multiple times.
3. Utensils: A gaiwan or small teapot made of Yixing clay or porcelain is best.

Kaishunhao's 2022 Shu Pu'er in Lime is an intriguing example of how a classic tea can be presented in a new, original form. The combination of Shu Pu'er with bright, refreshing lime creates a unique drink that will appeal to both pu'er connoisseurs seeking new experiences and those just beginning their exploration of this amazing tea. It's not just tea, but a small taste experiment in your cup.