The Dragon Ball That Defied Its Price Tag

Let’s talk about the dragon ball that defied its price tag. At $17, this “150-year ancient tree bingdao laozoi” sheng tea felt like a gamble—until I steeped it 10 times, each time uncovering layers of complexity. The result? A tea that defies its age, offering sweetness, tang, and a lingering aftertaste that made me rethink my entire approach to young sheng.

This isn’t your average dragon ball. The first few infusions revealed a crisp, almost citrusy brightness, like a sugar lemon squeezed into a cup of morning mist. By the fifth steep, the tea deepened into a nuanced balance of astringency and floral undertones, with a finish that felt almost creamy. What’s remarkable is how it held up—no bitterness, no flatness, just a steady evolution of flavor. For someone who usually avoids young sheng, this was a revelation.

The secret lies in the tea’s origin and processing. Ancient tree bingdao laozoi, grown in shaded conditions, develops a natural sweetness that’s rare in young pu-erh. The 4-6 second steeping window is critical—too long, and it becomes harsh; too short, and it’s underwhelming. This tea rewards patience, offering a sweet spot that’s both accessible and refined. It’s a rare example of a young sheng that feels aged, thanks to its meticulous craftsmanship and terroir.

The takeaway? Steeping time is everything. This tea thrives in the 4-6 second range, delivering a harmony of sweetness and astringency that’s hard to replicate. It’s a reminder that quality isn’t just about age—it’s about balance. And for $17, it’s a steal.

What’s your go-to steeping time for dragon ball? Share your ritual in the comments.

Questions & Answers

Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.