Aged Sheng Pu’er 2004 – Ai Lao

It is said that Ai Lao Sheng Pu’er has a uniqueness to it and after tasting this tea, I can wholeheartedly agree! Everything starts out rather predictably, the humid leaf has hints of smokiness, and a touch of thickness or meatiness, but nothing shocking. The liquor infuses to a rich, glistening amber, and then comes the first sip. KA-BOOM! This tea offers something utterly unique, akin to a coffee-like boldness but without any of the characteristic ‘sheng-bite’ I would have expected. The flavor is rounded and complete, without any offensive edges, but encompasses a slight bitterness, savory umami (absent of any fishiness), and a bright, joyful character. The liquor is velvety thick in the mouth and throat. If you love sheng Pu’er you won’t want to miss out on this unique aged Ai Lao Sheng Pu’er. And don’t forget to savor the herbal aroma of the gaiwan lid and the bottom cup aroma, reminiscent of a bamboo forest just after the rain.