Lao Ban Zhang 2014 - Shu Pu-erh 357g
Lao Ban Zhang 2014 is a premium aged shu pu-erh cake from the legendary Ban Zhang tea region. With nearly a decade of aging, this tea has developed exceptional smoothness, complexity, and depth. The 357g cake format represents traditional pu-erh craftsmanship from one of Yunnan’s most prestigious tea areas.
Origin
Lao Ban Zhang village, Menghai County, Yunnan Province, China. Produced in 2014, this tea comes from the famous Ban Zhang region known for producing some of the world’s most sought-after pu-erh. The 10 years of aging have mellowed the tea, developing rich complexity and smooth character while maintaining the powerful essence Ban Zhang teas are known for.
Flavor & Aroma Profile
- Appearance: Compressed cake with dark brown to black leaves, some golden tips visible
- Aroma: Deep, rich earthiness with notes of aged wood, dark chocolate, dried dates, and subtle camphor
- Flavor: Complex and smooth with layers of earth, dark chocolate, dried fruit, subtle sweetness, and mineral depth
- Finish: Long-lasting and satisfying with sweet aftertaste and no bitterness
Effects & Benefits
Tea Superpowers:
- Provides powerful, grounding energy and stamina
- Supports deep digestive health and metabolism
- Promotes mental clarity and focused awareness
- Rich in aged compounds with unique health benefits
- Warming and fortifying for the body
- Builds inner strength and resilience
This tea creates a state of powerful, centered presence - perfect for demanding work, meditation, or times requiring sustained energy and focus. The aged character provides depth and wisdom, grounding consciousness while enhancing vitality.
Brewing Instructions
Simple brewing method:
- For 0.5L: 5-7g of tea (break off pieces from cake)
- For 1L: 10-14g of tea
- Water temperature: 95-100°C (203-212°F)
- Steeping time: 3-5 minutes (rinse first with hot water for 5-10 seconds, discard)
- Re-steeping: Can be steeped 8-12 times
Aged shu pu-erh loves boiling water and reveals incredible depth through many infusions. Always rinse first. It won’t turn bitter and is excellent for thermos brewing. Each steeping unveils new layers of complexity.