ARRIVING EARLY DECEMBER - Gushu Lao Cha Tuo "Old Tea Head" Shou Puer

As someone new to puer, my language probably isn't the best to describe what I just drank. The tea lacked the sort of fishy quality that some puer has. By that I mean it seemed like a smooth but flavorful tea. As the product description promised (and as I expect of puerh), multiple steepings of my tea were well worth drinking. I need to experiment a bit to decide if I prefer it gonfu style (high leaf to water ratio) or grandpa style (dump some of the leaves in a mug and top it off with hot water repeatedly). Strong odds that I'll want more of this shou puer in the future.

Friday Afternoon Tea's Lao Cha Tuo "Old Tea Head" Shou Puer has quickly become one of my all-time favorite puer teas. This tea impresses with its thick, rich, and dark character, delivering a deeply satisfying experience from the very first sip. The flavor profile is beautifully complex, featuring distinct notes of minerals, warm mahogany, and a subtle honey sweetness that balances perfectly. Whether enjoyed plain or with a touch of sugar, it remains deliciously harmonious.

One of the most remarkable qualities of this tea is its exceptional resilience to multiple infusions. I have personally re-steeped a single piece up to 20 times, each brew maintaining its intensity and depth, which speaks to the high quality and careful aging of the leaves. This longevity makes it a rare and valuable tea to savor slowly, ideal for special occasions or moments when you want to indulge in something truly memorable.

The "Old Tea Head" bundles, naturally formed under the heat and pressure of the Shou Puer fermentation process, offer a unique and authentic experience that reflects the tradition and craftsmanship behind this tea. Although it is currently out of stock, I am eagerly awaiting its return to the Friday Afternoon Tea collection, as it is a treasure worth having on hand.

Overall, I give Lao Cha Tuo "Old Tea Head" Shou Puer a full five stars for its rich complexity, impressive re-steepability, and deeply satisfying flavor. It is a tea I absolutely love and look forward to enjoying again and again.