Palace Shu Pu-erh (Ripe Pu-erh) Dragon Ball 2021, 8g | Lincang, Yunnan

A palace-grade ripe pu-erh (shu) hand-pressed into a single-serving dragon ball and wrapped in gold foil. "Palace" (宫廷, gongting) is the highest grade of shu pu-erh, made from the smallest, most tender buds and top leaves, the most refined material a ripe cake can be built from. From Lincang, Yunnan, pressed in 2021, each ball is 8 g, a tidy one-session portion.

Palace-grade shu is prized for being clean and smooth rather than rough or muddy, and with a few years of age this 2021 has settled further, shedding any trace of the early pile-ferment edge. Expect a deep, dark cup with a gentle natural sweetness and the soft earthy depth of a well-made ripe pu-erh. [Confirm tasting notes — palace shu of this style typically shows wood, cocoa and a clean, sweet finish.] The dragon ball form lets it open up gradually over many infusions.

The liquor is deep, dark red-brown, thick and glossy, with a soft texture that coats the mouth. Drop one ball into your pot or gaiwan and it unfurls slowly, staying smooth and stable through many steeps while the sweetness builds as the session goes on.

A convenient, mess-free way to enjoy quality shu: one ball, one session, no need to break a cake. Equally good in a focused gongfu session or a thermos for the working day, and the gold-wrapped balls make an easy, attractive gift or sampler.

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.