Kaa, 2013, 357 г.

A large, aged shu pu-erh cake. The wrapper features the wise python Kaa from Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. The blend includes leaves and buds from tea trees in the Mengku region, Lincang.

The cake has a medium compression — you can break it by hand, though a tea pick is recommended. The surface is golden-orange thanks to the abundance of buds. Inside, more medium-grade leaves add balance and softness to the brew. A great daily tea at an accessible price.

Aroma

Bright, woody, clean, with nutty and berry notes.

Taste

Balanced and smooth, with sweet creamy, woody, and pastry-like tones. Soft yet expressive. Easy to drink — cup after cup. Leaves a pleasant, velvety aftertaste with a hint of chocolate bitterness.

Effect

Toning and energizing — perfect for starting a productive day.

Production

2013, Mengku region, Lincang Prefecture, Yunnan, China.

Format

357 g cake.

How to Brew

Don’t hold back on leaf quantity — and use boiling water!