Tie Guan Yin Classic 1980's 铁观音
Traditional, medium oxidation Iron Goddess, processed using only wooden presses with a light roast and aged in a buried ceramic jar. After over forty years, the expressive floral notes and caramel taste begin to break down and transform into silky delicate tannins, lingering sweetness, and a unique taste exclusive to fine-aged teas. The early roasting has dissipated leaving only a refreshing astringency in the aftertaste. It is remarkable how that green vitality in the taste was able to survive after all this time! The taste is elegant and deep, and it is said to make even the simplest act of breathing enjoyable.
Tie Guan Yin "Iron Buddha/Goddess of Mercy" is one of China's most famous teas for its intoxicating floral taste and lasting aroma. Few teas compare in expression, and when put in the hands of a truly talented producer, it is revelatory and sublime. Tie Guan Yin is also used to reference the tea tree cultivar itself which hails from the town of Jian Dou.
Handmade production starts with sun withering, then cooling, and shaking in baskets while in a ventilated room, and lastly fixing in a basket over charcoals. Rolling and shaping are done by manual wood presses in a cloth bag using body weight. This method of making tea is hard work, especially for elderly farmers. Farming methods are void of chemical fertilizers or pesticides and evident in the many bug bites found in the leaves.
Origin:
Anxi, China
Cultivar:
Yu Guan Yin
Flavor Profile:
Chen Xiang (陈香) aged taste and aroma, agarwood, dried sour plum, leather,
Servings:
5 x 5g
Net weight:
25g
