2019 Lao Ban Zhang Golden Tips Ripe Pu-erh Tea Cake Sample

This 25g sample of the 2019 Lao Ban Zhang Golden Tips Ripe Pu-erh Tea Cake (Shou) allows you to enjoy the unique depth and character of this classic tea without committing to a full cake. Approximately 50% of the leaves are sourced from the renowned Lao Ban Zhang Village, blended with neighboring Ban Pen ancient-tree material in a 1:1 ratio for a balanced and approachable profile. Dry Leaf & Appearance Golden Buds and Naturally Aged Leaves The dry leaves showcase abundant golden tips and a natural sheen from several years of aging. The sample cake is clean, free from dust, mold, or crumbling, reflecting careful storage. A subtle, sweet aroma and mellow notes can already be appreciated before brewing. Brewing Notes Liquor Color and Aroma Liquor Color: Deep reddish-brown, clear and bright, with noticeable viscosity. Hot Aroma: Clean aged fragrance with delicate floral and ripe-fruit notes. Warm Aroma: Sweet and mellow from Ban Pen material, harmonized with Lao Ban Zhang’s depth; hints of aged wood and dried jujube. Empty Cup Aroma: Gentle honey-like sweetness, soft and comforting. Taste Profile Smooth, Thick, and Balanced First Sip: Rich, silky, and thick on the palate. Lao Ban Zhang’s characteristic bold bitterness has mellowed after years of natural aging, leaving only a light, fleeting bitterness. Sweetness: Gradually develops mid-session from the Ban Pen material and golden tips. Smoothness: Glides across the tongue, leaving a warm, comfortable sensation in the throat. Returning Sweetness: Salivation develops gradually with a clean, refreshing finish and a hint of sugarcane-like sweetness. Endurance: Suitable for multiple infusions; the sweetness becomes more pronounced after the sixth brew. Leaf Base & Quality Ancient-Tree Tea Leaves The infused leaves are evenly processed, displaying reddish-brown hues with natural sheen. Tender, resilient buds remain clearly visible, free from carbonized leaves or hard stems. The blend is harmonious, with no sense of separation between Lao Ban Zhang and Ban Pen leaves. Why Try This Sample? Perfect for newcomers wanting to experience Lao Ban Zhang without buying a full cake. Ideal for seasoned Pu-erh enthusiasts who want to compare vintages or brewing styles. Enjoy the classic depth and sweetness of a premium sample, ready for immediate tasting. Gongfu Tea Brewing Guide (Traditional Method) Always rinse tea before the first infusion. For compressed teas, adjust the rinsing time according to the compression level, allowing the leaves to gently loosen before the first infusion. Water Temperature 100°C (212°F) Tea-to-Water Ratio 9g tea per 160ml water Steeping Time Brews 1–5 Steep for 4–9 sec Brews 6–10 Steep for 10–20 sec Brews 11–15 Steep for 21–35 sec Brews 16+ Steep for 35+ sec Tips: Tea masters recommend steeping times based on each tea's unique flavor, starting the timer after pouring the water. Common Brewing Guide (Easy Everyday Preparation) Water Temperature 100°C (212°F) Leaf-to-Water Ratio 2g per 100ml Steeping Time About 1–2 minutes Subsequent Infusions Increase by 30 seconds each time Tips: You can adjust the steeping time or leaf-to-water ratio to suit your taste—shorten the infusion for a lighter brew or extend it for a stronger one.