2005 MengHai “Meng Song Gu Cha Shan Peacock”

I woke up Sunday morning with an overwhelming desire to have a nice, hot, robust cup of tea. My taste-buds sought something pure, no added flavors just tea. When rummaging through the tea stash, I came across my puerhs. Purchased three months ago, I have not enjoyed a cup since sometime in May. I could not remember the taste of the 2005 MengHai “Meng Song Gu Cha Shan Peacock” tea. Yet I knew I was in for any adventure!

Composition: According to Hou De Fine Asian Art’s website, this tea is one of Meng Hai’s 2005 highest grade green cake offerings.  This 2005 MengHai “Meng Song Gu Cha Shan Peacock”, leads by featuring 100% (no blending) traditional sun-dried spring-harvested arbor leaves from the highest peak in XiShuangBanna, “Hwa Zhu Lian Tse” mountain.

Dry Visual: Dark brown - reminiscent of mulch.

Dry Aroma: Woody with very smoky undertones.

Flavor: A very robust, full-bodied tea. I found 2005 MengHai “Meng Song Gu Cha Shan Peacock” to be both woody and smoky. During the first infusion, the smokiness was a bit overwhelming even after the first washing. I used a little honey to round out the flavor. While drinking, I experienced a mild numbing sensation in the top of the mouth and back of the throat. The puerh experts have a word for it - when I find out I’ll post. The second infusion was not as smoky, but still required honey. 

Liquor: A rich amber color.

Brewing Time: Recommended brewing time is 1 minute for the first infusion after the wash - longer for subsequent infusions. I made the mistake of brewing 3 minutes during the first infusion, but made up for it by brewing for only 3 minutes during the second. I could have easily gotten several more infusions - unfortunately it was too late for me to drink more tea.

Manufacturer: Meng Hai Tea Factory sold by Hou De Fine Asian Art

Caffeine: Yes.

I am looking forward to enjoying more 2005 MengHai “Meng Song Gu Cha Shan Peacock” this evening. If I start early enough, I can probably enjoy four or five infusions. I have read that this tea has a sweetness to it - I did not experience that during my initial infusions. Perhaps later infusions will lead to the discovery of flavors previously undiscovered. Looking forward to my next cup!  Until then… Happy Tea Drinking!