Lao Cha Tou, or "Old Tea Heads," are prized, dense nuggets that form naturally during the wet-piling fermentation of Shu Puerh. Within these tight clusters, the tea matures slowly and uniformly, resulting in an exceptionally thick, sweet, and resilient character. This batch from 2003 represents mature Lao Cha Tou with the pronounced depth of well-aged Shu Puerh. These nuggets unfurl gradually, yielding a dark, profoundly thick liquor that withstands an extraordinary number of infusions. The texture is dense yet smooth, with none of the rough earthiness sometimes found in lower-grade material. The flavor profile is rich and comforting, with distinct notes of dark chocolate, dried fruits (prunes, dates), and a caramel-like sweetness. The finish is long, saturated, and velvety soft. In terms of effect, Lao Cha Tou is renowned for its powerful, even, and enduring energy. It focuses attention and supports deep concentration, delivering a stable, grounding effect without any jittery peaks or crashes. Brewing Versatility:
Gongfu Style: Use 6-8g per 150ml with boiling water (100°C). Start with longer steeps of 30-60 seconds due to the density, and increase time gradually. Yields many infusions.
Thermos / Grandpa Style: An excellent choice! Place a few nuggets in a thermos with boiling water for a rich, sustained brew that lasts for hours.
A robust and versatile tea for those seeking sustained energy and deep, sweet flavor.
