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Chinese Shu Pu'er tea "Lao cha tou" (老茶头, Lǎo chá tóu, "Old tea heads")
Shu Pu'er "Lao Cha Tou" is a unique and rare type of Chinese tea, prized for its richness, depth of flavor, and unusual shape. "Lao Cha Tou," or "old tea heads," are dense clumps of tea leaves formed during the fermentation process of Shu Pu'er. The tea was produced in 2018, giving it a particularly soft and harmonious texture.
What is "Lao Cha Tou"?
Lao Cha Tou 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 Cha Tou has a richer flavor and a longer aftertaste than regular Shu Pu'er.
Characteristics of tea
Appearance
The tea heads are irregularly shaped and dense. The leaves are dark brown with golden flecks of tip. When brewed, the tips gradually open, releasing a rich infusion.
Aroma
Dry tea has a deep, rich aroma with notes of nuttiness, wood, caramel, and a hint of earthiness. After brewing, the aroma becomes more complex, adding hints of dried fruit, chocolate, and sweet spice.
Taste
The flavor of Lao Cha Tou 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 finish is long, with pleasant sweet and spicy undertones.
Energy and Impact
Lao Cha Tou 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 Lao Cha Tou, 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 revealing new facets of flavor.
The 2018 Shu Pu'er "Lao Cha Tou" is a unique tea that combines a rich flavor, deep aroma, and abundant energy. Its unusual shape and production technology make it a true treasure for pu'er connoisseurs. This tea will provide unforgettable moments of pleasure and allow you to connect with the ancient traditions of Chinese tea art.
If you're looking for a tea that will surprise you with its versatility and provide warmth and comfort, Lao Cha Tou 2018 is an excellent choice.
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Name in Chinese
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老茶头 |
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Pinyin
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lǎo chá tóu |
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English name
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lao cha tou |
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Translation
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Old tea heads |
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Country
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China |
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Provinces
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Yunnan (云南) |
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Habitat
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Pu'er (普洱) |
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