True Cliff Shui Xian 2023 ("Zheng Yan" Traditional Dark Full Roast - Zu Huo 足火)

Zheng Yan Shui Xian from the inner reserve.

Crafted in the traditional Zuhuo dark roast style.

Notes of roasted bamboo leaves that you would get from a darker roast Shui Xian. Rounder characteristics, more singular dimensions, with a undercurrent of mineral Yan after settling for almost 3 years. 

This tea is ready to enjoy now or stashed away for further aging. It should develop over the years into an even thicker texture with a caramelized sweetness that unfolds. Time is a necessary component of this tea.

*This Zuhuo is thicker in the soup (dark coffee and intense brown flavors from higher oxidation levels) but wanes on the fragrance and viability dimensions. Go with Wild High Mountain Old Grove Shui Xian and other Shui Xians in the collection for the higher florals and fruit notes and longer lasting sweet finish.

Brewing Recommendations:

Darker zuhuo full roast teas will benefit from brewing with higher leaf to water ratio. 5-8 grams in 100-120ml water. Usually, short steeps help with more aromatics mid-high roast teas. For this one, it can handle boiling hot water and longer steeps. The focus here is on texture. Adjust to your preference.