Da Yi Hong Yun Shu Pu-erh (Ripe Pu-erh) Tea Cake 2024, 357g | Dayi (Menghai Tea Factory)

A festive ripe pu-erh from Dayi, pressed by the legendary Menghai Tea Factory in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan. Its name, Hong Yun Yuan Cha (红韵圆茶), means roughly "red charm round tea": 红 (red) for celebration and good fortune, 韵 for lingering charm, and 圆茶 the traditional word for a round cake. Wrapped in red with dragons, lanterns and coins, it was released for the 2024 Year of the Dragon. The traditional 357 g cake.

The character is classic Menghai shu, clean and smooth, built on the factory's decades of fermentation know-how. [Confirm tasting notes — a young Menghai ripe like this typically shows wood, dried dates and a gentle natural sweetness over a smooth earthy depth.] As a 2024 pressing it is still young and fresh; a short rest will round it out further.

The liquor is deep chestnut-red, 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 handsome, celebratory cake that works on two levels: an attractive Year of the Dragon gift in its festive red wrapper, and a dependable everyday Menghai shu. 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.