’06 Banzhang Ripe King

The ’06 Banzhang Ripe King hits with chocolate‑cake richness and a depth that drives straight into the throat, giving this ripe the throatiest presence in the entire Collection. The broth stays smooth and clean, never leaning on tannins for force. Instead, the tea pushes power through density, warmth, and a focused core that grips without harshness.

The dry aroma carries the mineral edge common in humid‑stored ripes, yet the liquor stays languid and full, full of clarity. A quick huigan emerges with cooling camphor and a lively lip tingle that brightens the finish. The qi arrives fast and strong—rising through the head, rolling down the back and arms, then settling in the belly with swirling warmth that keeps building until sweat breaks across the upper back. The experience feels immersive, physical, and unmistakably primo.

Very soft stone compression gives the cake a supple distinction, but the real story sits in the material. Fujin, one of the most selective and priciest respected outfits in this era, sourced shengtai gongting leaf of a representative high standard. Subsequently commissioned Zhang Jianli of Xinghai Tea Factory to execute her renowned fermentation acumen to maintain high standards throughout the creation process. The result carries the authority of Banzhang, the refinement of Fujin, and the technical mastery of Xinghai in a single, commanding ripe. Los Angeles stored since Feb ’21.

51¢

Xinghai’s Mid-Aged Berry Magic