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Overview:

• Year: 2001
• Type: Puerh Sheng Cha (Raw Tea)
• Weight: 357g
• Series: 8653

Description: The 2001 XiaGuan "8653" Iron Cake is a 357g Puerh Raw Tea (Sheng Cha) that exemplifies meticulous craftsmanship and storied tradition. It is renowned for its harmonious blend of appearance and flavor, featuring tightly wound and neatly arranged tea threads that promise both quality and visual appeal.

Taste Profile:

• Tea Liquor: Upon brewing, the tea produces a clear, bright liquor that is visually inviting.
• Aroma: The infusion opens with a slight smoky undertone, hinting at its robust processing, which blends seamlessly with the natural fragrance of the tea leaves.
• Flavor:
  • Sweetness: A subtle sweetness is present, balancing the profile.
  • Bitterness and Astringency: Medium levels of both bitterness and astringency, which is characteristic of a classic Sheng Puerh.
  • Strength and Mellow Flavor: The tea flavor emerges robustly but slowly, offering a thick and mellow taste that deepens with time.
• Storage: The natural storage in Guangzhou has allowed the tea to mature gracefully, enhancing its complexity.

Special Characteristics:

• T Version: The 'T' in T 8653 denotes the hard cake form ('Tie Bing' meaning iron cake), which ages more slowly, preserving the tea’s original fragrance.
• FT Version: The FT 8653 version uses younger and finer tea leaves, providing a softer, more nuanced flavor profile suitable for those who prefer less rugged tastes.

Historical Background:

• Origins: The "8653" series was originally produced in 1985 for a Japanese buyer, with the blend recipe finalized in 1986. The buyer canceled the order, and the tea was subsequently sold in the domestic market.
• Naming Convention: By 1988, the tea was officially named 8653, reflecting the year the blend recipe was created (1986), the grade of the tea materials (5th grade), and the production factory number within the CNNP group (XiaGuan, No.3).
• Variations:
  • General 8653: The standard version.
  • T 8653: The iron cake version, known for its longevity and robust aging.
  • FT 8653: Tailored for the Taiwanese market, using finer tea leaves for a gentler taste.
  • FTT 8653: Combines the iron cake form with the refined selection of younger leaves, balancing longevity with a less rugged taste.

Recommendation: The 2001 XiaGuan "8653" Iron Cake is highly recommended for those who wish to explore the depths of Puerh tea. It is an excellent choice for both seasoned tea enthusiasts and those new to Sheng Puerh, offering a remarkable tea experience that can be enjoyed daily.

Conclusion: The 2001 XiaGuan "8653" Iron Cake is a testament to the enduring legacy of Puerh tea. Its careful production, historical significance, and evolving variations make it a cherished addition to any tea collection, embodying the richness and diversity of Chinese tea culture.