This 2023 Single Tree Lao Ban Zhang Raw Pu-erh Tea Cake originates from the iconic Raw Pu-erh tea region — Lao Ban Zhang Village in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan.

Harvested from a 400+ year-old Ancient Tea Tree in the spring of 2023, it was carefully pressed into a rare 200-gram tea cake.

Lao Ban Zhang Pu-erh Tea is regarded as the “King of Pu-erh teas,” representing the highest standard among famous mountain teas.

In the village lies an ancient tea garden with centuries of history, home to the oldest Ancient Tea Trees, known as the “Tea King Land,” a nationally recognized ecological tea garden. The tree numbered “111,” from which this 2023 Single Tree Lao Ban Zhang Raw Pu-erh Tea Cake originates, comes directly from this sacred land.

Rarity & Authentication

From 400-Year-Old Tree

This Ancient Tea Tree produces only 3–3.5 kilograms of dry leaves each spring harvest.

In 2023, the harvesting rights were publicly bid and won by the Chinese Tea Group. The leaves were refined into just 16 cakes of 200 grams each, instead of the conventional 357 grams.

Anti-Counterfeit Authentication

Every cake is packaged with certified anti-counterfeit design, continuing a traditional practice in fine tea trading.

Each year, the packaging incorporates unique identifiers confirmed by both the tea tree owner and the purchaser. These may include subtle differences in font strokes or pattern details.

This tradition comes from decades of experience in the high-end Pu-erh tea market. Minor variations across batches, such as printing marks or color changes, have historically served as important visual cues for authenticity. They provide reliable traceability and protection against counterfeiting.

Tasting Profile

Bold Aroma & Swift Sweetness

With its rare origin, centuries-old Ancient Tea Trees, and unblended, single-tree raw material, this Raw Pu-erh Tea is a true treasure.

This tea delivers a bold, intense character on the first sip, with a long-lasting aroma and quickly returning sweetness.

These qualities define the Lao Ban Zhang Pu-erh Tea region and uphold its reputation as the true “King of Pu-erh Tea.”

Aging Potential

Within the 1-to-3-year range, the tea is at its freshest, showing maximum fragrance, tea energy, and strength of character.

Over time, it will evolve, becoming smoother and developing deeper aged flavors.

In 2023, drought and reduced rainfall slowed the growth of tea leaves, resulting in a more concentrated aroma, richer flavor, and exceptional potential for aging and collection.

This spring harvest is already recognized as one of the most distinctive in recent years for Pu-erh Tea.

A Collector's Masterpiece

Pure Single-Tree Origin

Many tea enthusiasts often wonder: why do teas from the same region vary so much in price?

Leveraging over 30 years of professional experience, the Chinese Tea Group, upholding customers’ right to know, explains the main reasons:

• Different harvest seasons within the same region
• Varying tea tree varieties and ages
• Proximity to the core production area
• Selective picking from a single tree (single-harvest) versus mixed picking

Most Pu-erh teas on the market are blends, carefully crafted by experienced tea masters who combine leaves from different mountains and harvests to achieve balanced and consistent flavor.

However, in rare production areas like Lao Ban Zhang, blending can diminish the unique regional value.

If Lao Ban Zhang leaves are mixed with tea from other areas, the final quality and value depend on multiple factors: the proportion of Lao Ban Zhang leaves, harvest season, tea tree age, and raw material grade.

These factors collectively explain the significant price differences of Lao Ban Zhang Pu-erh Tea.

Our 2023 Single Tree Lao Ban Zhang Raw Pu-erh Tea Cake is made entirely from a single Ancient Tea Tree harvested in spring, with no blending from other regions, seasons, or trees.

Appreciating Value

In addition to its pure lineage, our Lao Ban Zhang Pu-erh Tea offers the unmatched experience of single-tree, unblended Raw Pu-erh Tea.

Leveraging the expertise and advantages of our traditional brick-and-mortar tea house, the 2023 Single Tree Lao Ban Zhang Raw Pu-erh Tea Cake is a rare masterpiece.

Over time, its flavor will continue to evolve, offering a unique tasting experience that no other tea can replicate.

Not sure if this tea suits your taste? Try a sample and follow our brewing guide.

Try Sample & View Guide