’09 Ox, 6FTM

The Ox is sixth in the 6FTM Lunar Series.  Comprised of early spring material from Xishuangbanna, Lincang, and Simao, this recipe distinguishes itself for being extremely assertive in taste and qi.  In contrast to the earlier productions of the 6FTM Zodiac Series, the Ox is wet-stored, seemingly from the factory, though the humidity has had considerable time to settle while taking on some home-grown mushroom character from its new residence.  This is the second in the series to be moderately pressed.  Items of this set have already reached collector’s status.  Stored in LA since Aug ’19.

Six Famous Tea Mountains was established in 2002 and gained its organic certification in 2004. It carries a solid reputation, even commissioned by Wistaria Tea House in the early naughts.  Like many, founder Ruan Dianrong (1968- ) has Menghai TF connections.  However, Ms Ruan’s four-year stint dealt mostly with establishing production standards and marketing.  Her role in helping Menghai/Dayi and puerh more broadly develop a consumer base cannot be underestimated, being the first to establish commemorative cakes, puerh tea art, connect Menghai with puerh in the minds of consumers, set up Dayi branches throughout China, promote tea tourism, and to publish on puerh through major Beijing publishing houses.

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