Lao Cha Tou Shu Puerh - 老茶头 - 2021

2021 Blended Lao Cha Tou: A Rare Treasure from Jingmai & Bulang Mountains Product name: 2021 Blended Lao Cha Tou Origin:Jingmai Mountain & Bulang Mountain, Yunnan, China Tea type: Ripe Pu-erh (Shou Pu-erh) Tree age: Harvest year: 2021 What is Lao Cha Tou? Lao Cha Tou (老茶头), also known as "Tea Nuggets" or "Gutta Tea," is one of the most intriguing and sought-after products in the world of Pu-erh tea. It is a unique by-product of the Wo Dui (wet piling) fermentation process used to create ripe Pu-erh tea . During fermentation, tea piles generate heat. To manage the temperature, the piles are regularly turned. The tea leaves, especially the tender buds rich in natural pectin and sugars, stick together under pressure and heat, forming dense, irregular clumps. These clumps are the "Tea Heads". Once fermentation is complete, most clumps are broken apart, but some are too tightly bonded and would shatter if forced. These select, hard-to-break clumps are set aside as "Lao Cha Tou." In the past they were used by the locals to make tea, however, in the past decade they have become a rare and highly prized part of the fermentation process. Cha tou represent only about 0.8% to 1.5% of the total tea batch. A Masterful Blend: Jingmai & Bulang Our 2021 Lao Cha Tou is a specially crafted blend from two of Yunnan's most prestigious tea mountains: Jingmai and Bulang. 景迈山 (Jingmai Mountain): A UNESCO World Heritage site, Jingmai is renowned for its thousand-year-old tea gardens, maintained by the Blang and Dai ethnic groups . Tea from Jingmai is known for its elegant, floral aroma and sweet, smooth character. 布朗山 (Bulang Mountain): Famous for producing powerful, robust teas with a deep, earthy flavour and a strong "cha qi" (tea energy). The Bulang people are considered one of the earliest ethnic groups to cultivate tea in Yunnan . By combining the sweet, aromatic notes of Jingmai with the rich, full-bodied depth of Bulang, we have created a Lao Cha Tou that is complex, balanced, and truly exceptional. The blend uses leaves from both old and ancient tea trees (Gushu), further enhancing the tea's depth and longevity. The Experience: Flavour, Aroma & Texture This tea is a sensory delight, offering a journey with every steep. Appearance: The dry leaves form dark brown, tightly compressed nuggets, with visible buds and a clear, clean aroma. Liquor: The tea soup is a deep, clear ruby-red, reminiscent of fine amber. Aroma: A rich, comforting fragrance of dates, caramel, and aged wood, with a hint of the sweet, floral character from Jingmai. Taste: The flavor is thick, smooth, and mellow with a natural, pleasant sweetness. The liquor has a velvety, almost syrupy texture that coats the mouth. The blend ensures a robust, satisfying taste that is never harsh. Finish: A long-lasting, sweet aftertaste and a warming sensation that soothes the body and mind. The tea has a remarkable endurance, lasting for over 20 infusions without losing its character . Health Benefits: More Than Just a Drink Like all high-quality Pu-erh teas, Lao Cha Tou is celebrated not only for its taste but also for its potential health benefits. The rich pectin content gives it a gentle, calming effect on the body. Digestive Health: It is known to aid digestion and help break down fats, making it an excellent tea to enjoy after a meal . Gentle on the Stomach: The fermentation process makes it less astringent and easier on the stomach than raw (sheng) Pu-erh, making it a great choice for people with sensitive digestion. Metabolism Support: It can help boost metabolism. Relaxation: A warm cup provides a soothing, grounding effect, perfect for unwinding.