Limingxing Yiwu Chen Xiang Shu Pu-erh (Ripe Pu-erh) Tea Cake 2012, 357g | Menghai

A ripe pu-erh from Limingxing (黎星 / 黎明星火), named Yiwu Chen Xiang (易武陈香, "Yiwu aged fragrance"), pressed in the traditional Menghai Qi Zi Bing ("seven sons") 357 g format. The leaf is Yunnan large-leaf material from Xishuangbanna. After hand-sorting it was fermented and steam-pressed into a tight, even cake. Pressed on 28 April 2012, now well-aged.

With over a decade of age behind it, this is ripe pu-erh at its smooth, comfortable best. The early pile-ferment edge is long gone, leaving a clean, deep cup with a mellow, sweet character and a notably thick, full body. The aged aroma is clean and rich, true to the "chen xiang" (aged fragrance) in its name.

The liquor is a bright reddish-gold, clear and glossy, with a soft, full texture that coats the mouth. Across infusions it stays stable and generous, holding its depth through many steeps while the sweetness opens further, leaving a clean, refreshing finish.

Limingxing traces its roots to the former state-owned Liming tea factory. A well-aged, full-bodied cake that works on two levels: a smooth, satisfying daily shu, and a dated 357 g cake worth keeping or giving as a gift. Ready to drink now and stable to keep.

Tea profile