ICONIC PUERH ART CULTURE

’06 T8371, ZC

$9.00

Guangdong stored, light fermentation.  Tannins and cinnamon notes.

8 in stock

The ’06 T8371 is a ripe brick commissioned by a large Guangdong distributor, indicated by the “T” in the recipe enumeration.  This treasure is crafted primarily from grade 7 leaves, a bit smaller from the well-recognized 7581.  The differences between the two are noteworthy.

The T8371 has undergone light fermentation, while undergoing Guangdong storage.  This produces a ripe in the vein of a well-aged raw puerh of about 25 years old.  Conversely, the 7581 has heavier fermentation, and the storage conditions vary widely.  Generally, 7581 will be much thicker and sweeter.  It is one of the ripe standard bearers, essentially defining the category.

The smaller leaf size and light fermentation in T8371 deliver a greater attack on the tongue and in the throat by virtue more tannins.  It also gives off some cinnamon notes.  A similarly aged 7581 will be more velvety and viscous.  There’s a good chance of more camphor in a humidly stored production, fruit in those dryly stored.

Guangdong storage tends to be highly coveted by ripe puerh enthusiasts. The T8371 checks that box, while the light fermentation makes it relatively rare.  Consistent with Zhongcha’s high standards, the liquor is crystal clear, sparkling like a dark ruby and expressing an unmistakably clean taste.  Stored in Los Angeles since ’18.

30¢