Vintage Liu Bao — Aged Chinese Dark Tea

Vintage Liu Bao is a true dark tea (not a red one!) from Guangxi province. "Vintage" here refers to the production method rather than a collector's batch: the very processes used to make Liu Bao are what shu pu-erh later grew out of. Liu Bao can fairly be called the forefather of shu pu-erh.

Shu has long overtaken its relative in popularity, but Liu Bao should not be written off. In the early 20th century it was given to tin miners in Malaysia — which says a lot about its density and character.

Taste and aroma

Liu Bao used to be seen as a cheap alternative to shu pu-erh — the same deep, warming taste. Not in this case! This aged Liu Bao gives you a cup of thick, rich liquor with a soft nutty flavour.

• Bark, dry wood, damp earth, moss
• Open-fire smoke, roasted nuts
• Cream, chocolate, pepper, date

Format and packaging

Loose leaf, in a kraft paper doypack with a clear window and zip-lock. Available in 7 g, 25 g, 50 g, 100 g + 5 g and 200 g + 10 g packs.