Let’s talk about the eerie dance between time and terroir. This 2005 Tulin Phoenix Special raw puerh isn’t just a tea—it’s a conversation with its past. The first sip is a jolt of old paper and diesel, a scent that lingers like a half-remembered memory. It’s not unpleasant, but it’s a warning: this tea hasn’t fully shaken off its storage history. The initial steepings are all flash and little substance, like a bookshelf of dusty tomes that only reveal their secrets after hours of patience.
By the third steep, things start to shift. The old-paper note softens, giving way to a subtle citrus spark and maraschino cherry undertone. It’s a fragile balance—sweetness barely peeking through the cracks of astringency. The finish is where the tea’s true character emerges, a faint huigan sweetness that feels like a whisper rather than a shout. But it’s still holding back, as if waiting for the right moment to unfurl. The final steep reveals a hint of cassia and pine resin, a fleeting bitterness that’s more presence than punch.
The key takeaway? This puerh is a work in progress. The storage note is persistent, and the mid-palate flatness suggests it needs time to breathe. While it’s not a showstopper yet, its potential is there—especially if you let it rest for a few weeks. The finish, though delicate, carries enough depth to justify its price, though it could use more sweetness to round out its profile.
So here’s the question: Would you wait for this tea to evolve, or would you embrace its current state as a no-frills daily drinker? What’s your take on the role of storage notes in aged puers?
Key points: The tea’s old-paper storage character dominates early on, the mid-palate lacks vibrancy, and the finish hints at hidden sweetness that may emerge with time.
Key points: The tea’s old-paper storage character dominates early on, the mid-palate lacks vibrancy, and the finish hints at hidden sweetness that may emerge with time.
Close: What’s your take on the role of storage notes in aged puers? Would you wait for this tea to evolve, or would you embrace its current state as a no-frills daily drinker?
Questions & Answers
What’s the taste of 2005 Tulin Phoenix Special raw puer tuo?
It has a smooth, earthy flavor with notes of wood and spice. The tea offers a balanced, mellow finish with a slight sweetness.
How should I brew 2005 Tulin Phoenix Special raw puer tuo?
Use 15-20g of leaves, heat water to 95°C, and steep for 10-15 seconds. It works well with multiple infusions for a rich, evolving cup.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
