Lao Tong Zhi 9988 Shu Pu-erh (Ripe Pu-erh) Tea Brick 2023, 250g | Haiwan

A ripe pu-erh brick from Lao Tong Zhi ("Old Comrade"), the celebrated brand of the Haiwan Tea Factory in Yunnan, founded by the legendary master Zou Bingliang. 9988 is a recipe number, read the standard way: 99 marks the year the recipe was set (1999), the 8 the leaf grade, and the 8 the factory code for Haiwan. This is the 2023 pressing, compressed into a practical 250 g brick.

The character is classic Haiwan shu, clean and smooth, built on decades of refined fermentation know-how. [Confirm tasting notes — a Lao Tong Zhi ripe like this typically shows wood, dried dates and a gentle natural sweetness over a smooth earthy depth.] As a young 2023 pressing it carries fresh energy, and a short rest will round it out further.

The liquor is deep chestnut to red-brown, thick and glossy, with a soft texture that coats the mouth. Across infusions it stays stable and generous, holding its character through many steeps while the quiet sweetness grows as the session goes on. A brick is also easy to break and convenient to store.

A dependable, well-priced brand-name shu with a recognised recipe behind it. Equally at home in a focused gongfu session or a thermos for the working day, ready to drink now and steady to keep, settling further over the coming years.

Tea profile

📖 Brewing guide: Learn how to brew Chinese tea and prepare gongfu tea for the best flavor and aroma.

🍃 New to pu-erh? Learn the difference between Shu Pu-erh and Sheng Pu-erh and find the pu-erh that suits your taste.