For lovers of thickness and power This 1998 Xiaguan 8653 is a powerful, mature sheng with the unmistakable character of old-school Xiaguan. After ten years of storage in Hong Kong followed by further aging in Taiwan, its youthful sharpness has settled into a deep, mellow profile, while the tea has retained its remarkable weight and presence. The first impression is so dark and earthy that it can briefly remind you of a shu Pu’er when first hit with water. The flavor then reveals old wood, damp forest earth and a light trace of mushrooms, supported by a subdued hint of smokiness. Subtle herbal notes appear beneath the darker flavours, alongside a restrained sweetness that becomes clearer in the finish. Its defining quality is the mouthfeel: thick, broad, steady and very smooth, with considerably more power than aroma-led refinement. The tea feels grounding and deeply relaxing, yet never weak or sleepy. A persistent returning sweetness gradually follows the woody intensity and remains long after the cup is empty. Where the 2001 Xiaguan 8633 is refreshing, delicate and lifted by dried-fruit and cooling aromas, this 1998 8653 is its heavier counterpart: a mellow old-school tough guy built around depth, strength and texture. Written by Mauzi Xiaguan Tea Factory Xiaguan Tea Factory was established in 1941 in Dali, Yunnan, under the name Kangzang Tea Factory. Today, it is one of China’s most influential producers of Pu’er tea and is especially renowned for its traditional Tuocha teas and classic Sheng Pu’er recipes. Over the decades, Xiaguan has developed a distinctive style characterised by firm compression, pronounced smoky aromas, a robust character and excellent aging potential. The 8653 recipe was first developed in 1986 and has since become one of Xiaguan’s best-known benchmark blends. Its recipe code follows the traditional CNNP numbering system: “86” refers to the year in which the blend was developed, “5” denotes the principal leaf grade used, and the final “3” identifies Xiaguan Tea Factory as the producer.