Jin Ya Gong Bing Pu'er Cake (金牙贡饼普洱茶）

Brewing Directions: Gong Fu Cha Method

• Water Temperature: For the gong fu cha brewing method, heat the water to about 100°C (212°F). The water should be hot but not boiling.

• Amount of Leaves: Use approximately 7 grams (0.25 ounces) of tea leaves for a 100ml (3.4 fluid ounces) gaiwan or Yixing teapot.

• Amount of Water: Fill the gaiwan or teapot with hot water, allowing the leaves enough space to expand.

• Steeping Times: In the gong fu cha method, the first infusion should be around 10-15 seconds. Subsequent infusions can be increased gradually, starting from 15-20 seconds and extending up to 30-40 seconds. Enjoy multiple infusions, typically 10~12.

Jin Ya Gong Pu'er Tea originates from the Yunnan province in China, renowned for its Pu'er tea production. This tea is typically sourced from ancient tea trees growing in the high-altitude mountainous regions of Yunnan. The unique terroir and climate of Yunnan greatly impact the flavor and character of Jin Ya Gong Pu'er Tea.

The golden buds, carefully handpicked from the ancient tea trees, contribute to the tea's exceptional flavor. The leaves are often harvested during the early spring when they are at their peak. Yunnan's mountainous terrain, combined with its fertile soil, provides the ideal conditions for the tea trees to grow and develop their distinctive flavors.

Jin Ya Gong Pu'er Tea offers a complex and rich taste profile. It often exhibits notes of sweetness, earthiness, and a smooth, velvety texture. The golden buds bring forth a mellow and nuanced flavor, creating an exquisite tea-drinking experience.

The tea leaves for Jin Ya Gong Pu'er Tea are meticulously handpicked, with a focus on selecting the golden buds from the ancient tea trees. The leaves are carefully plucked during the early spring season when they are tender and contain high levels of aromatic compounds.

After picking, the leaves undergo a series of processing steps. They are withered, rolled, and oxidized to develop their unique flavors and aromas. The oxidation process distinguishes Pu'er teas from other types of tea. The leaves are then carefully dried and aged to further enhance their flavors and qualities.

Jin Ya Gong Pu'er Tea is often packed in various forms, including loose leaf form, tea cakes, or tuocha. These packaging methods help preserve the tea's flavor and promote proper aging over time.

Jin Ya Gong Pu'er Tea, like other Pu'er teas, offers several potential health benefits. It contains antioxidants, polyphenols, and other bioactive compounds that may contribute to supporting digestion, aiding in weight management, and promoting cardiovascular health. Additionally, Pu'er teas are often associated with providing a source of hydration and relaxation.

In terms of caffeine content, Pu'er teas, including Jin Ya Gong Pu'er Tea, generally contain moderate levels of caffeine. The exact amount can vary depending on factors such as the brewing method, steeping time, and the specific tea leaves used. On average, an 8-ounce cup of Jin Ya Gong Pu'er Tea contains approximately 30-40 milligrams of caffeine.

Jin Ya Gong Pu'er Tea has a historical significance linked to the ancient Tea Horse Road. This renowned trading route connected the tea-producing regions of Yunnan with Tibet and other parts of China. Pu'er teas, including Jin Ya Gong Pu'er Tea, were highly prized commodities along this ancient route.

During the journey, the tea was transported on horse caravans, enduring long and treacherous routes. To ensure the teas' preservation and enhance their flavor, the teas were tightly compressed into tea cakes or tuocha. This compression allowed the teas to age and mature, resulting in deeper and more complex flavors.

The historical association with the Tea Horse Road adds a sense of adventure and mystique to Jin Ya Gong Pu'er Tea. It reflects the tea's long-standing tradition, its role in cultural exchange, and the rich heritage of Pu'er tea in Yunnan.