2004年曼松老生茶

The leaves are hand-selected from ancient tea trees thriving in the pine-clad highlands of Mánsong's core terroir—a legendary imperial tea-growing enclave within Yunnan's

Xishuangbanna region. Revered for its ethereal elegance and royal pedigree, this aged raw pu erh stands as a pinnacle of sheng artistry, its character shaped by mineral-rich soils and mists that veil these sacred slopes.

The 2004年曼松老生茶 is a premium sheng Pu-erh tea derived from the ancient tea trees of the Mansong (曼松) region in Yunnan Province, China. Known for its historical significance and rarity, Mansong tea has been highly regarded for hundreds of years as a tribute tea (贡茶), reserved for emperors during the Qing Dynasty.

BACKGROUND

1. Origin: Mansong Village (曼松村)

• Location:
  • Mansong is located in the Jinggu County of Yunnan Province, at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters.
  • The region is known for its ancient tea gardens, abundant rainfall, fertile soil, and ideal growing conditions for high-quality Pu-erh tea.
• Historical Significance:
  • Mansong tea was historically designated as a tribute tea (贡茶), meaning that it was exclusively selected and offered to the imperial court.
  • This legacy has elevated Mansong tea’s status as a prized and rare offering among Pu-erh aficionados.
• Ancient Tea Trees:
  • The tea is made from centuries-old trees (古树茶, gu shu cha), which produce leaves with exceptional depth, natural sweetness, and complex flavors.

2. Year of Production: 2004

• After nearly two decades of aging, this sheng Pu-erh has developed a mature and balanced flavor profile.
• The aging process has mellowed the tea’s youthful bitterness, enhancing its sweetness and complexity.

3. Craftsmanship: Traditional Processing

• The tea is handpicked and processed using traditional techniques, including natural sun-drying and stone-mold compression, which help preserve the integrity of the leaves and their aging potential.
• The 357g cake form is a classic choice, designed for long-term storage and aging.

FLAVOR AND AROMA PROFILE

Aroma:

• Elegant and Sweet:
  • A delicate floral fragrance, with hints of orchid, honey, and aged wood.

Flavor:

• Smooth and Refined:
  • A balanced sweetness with mild bitterness and a lingering aftertaste (hui gan 回甘).
  • Layers of dried fruits, sugarcane, and subtle herbal notes.

Mouthfeel:

• Silky and full-bodied, with a clean and refreshing sensation.

Aging Potential:

• While already well-aged, this tea can continue to develop greater depth and complexity with proper storage.

WHY THIS TEA STANDS OUT

• Prestigious Origin:
  • Mansong’s reputation as a tribute tea region underscores its historical and cultural significance.
• Ancient Tree Heritage:
  • Leaves from ancient Mansong tea trees ensure a rich and nuanced flavor profile.
• Refined Aging:
  • With nearly 20 years of aging, this tea has reached a mature stage, offering a harmonious and smooth drinking experience.
• Traditional Craftsmanship:
  • The careful processing and classic cake compression reflect the artistry of traditional Pu-erh production.
• Collector’s Value:
  • As an aged Mansong tea, this offering is exceedingly rare and highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs.