Shu Pu'er 2016 "Jingdong Laochatou" (Old Tea Heads from Jingdong)

Chinese Shu Pu'er tea 2016 "Jingdong Laochatou" (老茶头, Lǎo chá tóu, "Old tea heads from Jingdong")

Shu Pu'er "Jingdong Laochatou" is a unique and rare type of Chinese tea, prized for its richness, depth of flavor, and unusual shape. "Laochatou," or "old tea heads," are dense clumps of tea leaves formed during the fermentation process of Shu Pu'er. The tea was produced in 2016 in the Jingdong region (景东, Jǐngdōng) of Yunnan Province, giving it a particularly soft and harmonious texture.

Features of the Jingdong region

Jingdong is a picturesque region in Yunnan Province, renowned for its ancient tea plantations and favorable climate. Clean air, fertile soil, and a moderate climate create ideal conditions for tea tree growth. Jingdong teas are distinguished by their rich flavor, vibrant aroma, and balanced character.

What is "Laochatou"?

"Lao Chatou" is a byproduct formed during the fermentation of Shu Pu'er. During wet stacking (wo dui), the tea leaves release natural sugars and juices, which bind them into dense clumps. These clumps, or "tea heads," are hand-selected and then undergo further processing. Thanks to its dense structure, "Lao Chatou" has a richer flavor and a longer aftertaste than regular Shu Pu'er.

Characteristics of Jingdong Laochatou tea

Appearance

The tea heads are irregularly shaped and dense. The leaves are dark brown with golden flecks of tip. When brewed, the lumps gradually open, releasing a rich infusion.

Aroma

Dry tea has a deep, rich aroma with notes of nut, wood, caramel, and a slight earthiness. When warmed by the breath, the aroma is dry, subtle, and slightly moist. After brewing, the aroma opens up, adding hints of dried fruit, chocolate, woody-nutty undertones, notes of medicinal herbs and sweet spice.

Taste

The flavor of Jingdong Laochatou tea is rich and velvety. The infusion has a thick, dark brown color with ruby highlights. The taste is dominated by warm notes of nuts, caramel, dried fruits, and a slight woody bitterness. The brewed tea has a clean, rich, slightly moist, yet subtle flavor with nuances of warmed hazelnut, baked milk, woody notes, and chocolate. The aftertaste is enveloping, sweetish and long-lasting, reminiscent of chocolate and woody tones, long, with pleasant sweet and spicy notes.

Energy and Impact

Lao Chatou has a warming effect and promotes relaxation. This tea is ideal for the colder months and for those who appreciate a calm and meditative tea experience.

Brewing recommendations

For brewing Jingdong Laochatou, it is recommended to use the steeping method in a gaiwan or Yixing clay teapot. The water temperature should be around 95–100°C. The initial steeps should be short (10–15 seconds) to reveal the aroma and avoid excessive bitterness. Gradually, the steeping time can be increased. The tea can withstand up to 10–12 steeps, each of which reveals new facets of flavor.

Shu Pu'er "Jingdong Laochatou" 2016 is a unique tea that combines a rich flavor, deep aroma, and abundant energy. Its origins in the Jingdong region and its unusual shape make it a true treasure for pu'er connoisseurs. This tea will offer unforgettable moments of enjoyment and allow you to connect with the ancient traditions of Chinese tea art.