2018 Classic Ripe Pu-erh Tea Cake Sample

This sample is taken from our 2018 Classic Ripe Pu-erh Tea Cake (Shou), a tea inspired by the legendary 1975 Menghai Tea Factory benchmark recipe.

Made from Grade 2 tender buds selected from ecological tea gardens in Menghai, Yunnan, this tea represents a modern interpretation of a classic Ripe Pu-erh style—focused on balance, depth, and smoothness.

This style draws from the early Menghai fermentation approach, which transformed coarse leaves into rich, mellow, age-worthy tea. In this version, the leaf grade has been significantly upgraded, resulting in a cleaner, more refined, and more elegant cup character.

Why Try a Sample?

Ripe Pu-erh can vary significantly between batches, storage conditions, and personal taste preferences. A sample allows you to explore the character of this tea before committing to a full cake.

We recommend starting with a small portion, especially if this is your first experience with a higher-grade Ripe Pu-erh.

Tasting Profile

This tea is known for its:

• Smooth, full-bodied liquor
• Wine-like depth and texture
• Gentle floral and aged aroma balance
• Lingering natural sweetness
• Smooth, warming mouthfeel

It is designed to offer both immediate enjoyment and long-term drinking satisfaction as the tea continues to evolve over time.

Storage & Craftsmanship

The tea was produced and pressed in 2018, stored in Kunming (dry storage), later transferred to a temperature- and humidity-controlled warehouse in Dongguan, and professionally evaluated before release.

Recommended For

This Chinese compressed tea cake sample is ideal for:

• First-time Ripe Pu-erh drinkers
• Customers exploring Menghai-style fermentation
• Tea drinkers who prefer smooth, mellow, low-astringency teas
• Those considering purchasing a full cake after tasting
  

Gongfu Tea Brewing Guide

(Traditional Method)

Always rinse tea before the first infusion. For compressed teas, adjust the rinsing time according to the compression level, allowing the leaves to gently loosen before the first infusion.

Tips: Tea masters recommend steeping times based on each tea's unique flavor, starting the timer after pouring the water.

Common Brewing Guide

(Easy Everyday Preparation)

Tips: You can adjust the steeping time or leaf-to-water ratio to suit your taste—shorten the infusion for a lighter brew or extend it for a stronger one.