Limingxing Qi Zi Bing Shu Pu-erh (Ripe Pu-erh) Tea Cake 2012, 50g | Menghai

A ripe pu-erh from Limingxing (黎明星火), pressed in the traditional Qi Zi Bing ("seven sons") 357 g format and offered here as a 50 g portion. The leaf is Yunnan large-leaf maocha from the Lancang river basin, grown above 2,000 m in Menghai county, Xishuangbanna. After hand-sorting and selection it was fermented and steam-pressed into a tight, even cake. This is the 2012 pressing, 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.

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, thirst-quenching finish.

A well-aged, full-bodied shu, smooth and satisfying for daily drinking. A 50 g portion is an easy way to enjoy a decade-aged Menghai cake without committing to a whole bing, equally at home in a focused gongfu session or a thermos.

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.