Lao Tong Zhi Shu Pu-erh (Ripe Pu-erh) Tea Cake 2021, 357g | Haiwan

A ripe pu-erh from Lao Tong Zhi ("Old Comrade"), the celebrated brand of the Haiwan Tea Factory in Yunnan, founded by the legendary master Zou Bingliang, the man behind some of the most famous shu recipes in pu-erh history. This is the 2021 pressing, in the traditional 357 g cake.

With around five years of age behind it, this is ripe pu-erh settled into a smooth, comfortable stride. The early pile-ferment edge has faded, leaving a clean, deep cup. [Confirm tasting notes — a Lao Tong Zhi ripe like this typically shows wood, dried dates and a warm natural sweetness over the smooth earthy depth of a well-made shu.]

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 depth through many steeps while the sweetness opens further as the session goes on, trailing into a clean, mellow finish.

A dependable, brand-name shu with a serious pedigree 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 for further age.

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.