Yunnan Pu-erh Very Old (Large Leaf)

This vintage 2010 large leaf pu-erh from Menghai in Yunnan province brews a rich, nuanced dark cup with aroma like a bracken forest, and a smooth, mild, satisfying finish that lies full on the tongue. This higher-end cooked pu-erh looks very dark in the cup and yet tastes so mild and smooth. It is also a clean tea, but non-certified organic, as no pesticides were used. This style of tea does very well in Hong Kong, whereas the same character but in the small leaf style seems to do better on the mainland. Use 1 generous tsp. dried leaf (3-4g) per 6-ounce cup of spring water heated to just below boiling (212°). Pour hot water over leaves and steep 4 minutes, increasing the brewing time with each subsequent infusion until the flavor begins to fade.