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Tè Pu-erh maturo Imperial Gongting - Collezione premium di foglie sfuse

Xi'an Dry-Stored | Multi-Vintage Selection (2002-2021) | 100% Spring Tender Buds

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Tea profile

  • Tea Type: Shou (Ripe) Pu-erh / 熟普洱茶
  • Leaf Grade: Gongting (Imperial/Palace Grade) - Highest classification in ripe pu-erh grading system
  • Leaf Material: 100% tender spring buds (Nèn Yá, 嫩芽) from Yunnan large-leaf varietal (Dà Yè Zhǒng, 大叶种)
  • Available Vintages: 2002, 2005, 2007, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2021
  • Production Region: Various premier tea districts across Yunnan Province, China (Approximate coordinates: 22°N-25°N, 99°E-102°E)
  • Processing Method: Traditional wet-pile fermentation (Wò Duī Fā Jiào, 渥堆发酵), followed by extended aging
  • Storage Type: Full dry storage (Gān Cāng, 干仓) in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province—semi-arid inland climate ensuring exceptional purity
  • Storage Duration: 5-24 years depending on vintage selection
  • Packaging Options: 100g tin, 200g tin, 500g tin, 1kg tin
  • Maturity Stage:2002/2005/2007: Fully Matured—peak drinking window with continued aging potential of 10+ years2013/2015: Early Aged—balanced and approachable, suitable for further aging 15-20 years2017/2021: Young Mature—smooth and clean, excellent foundation for long-term cellaring 20+ years
  • Dry Storage Certification: Guaranteed clean, no off-flavors, no mustiness, no storage defects

About this tea

Decenni di meticolosa conservazione a secco di Xi'an trasformano i migliori germogli primaverili nel Ripe Pu-erh più setoso e puro che tu abbia mai assaggiato: un tesoro da collezionista ora disponibile nelle annate dal 2002 al 2021.

Ciò che lo rende unico

  1. Il grado più elevato di Ripe Pu-erh, punto: L'Imperial Gongting (Palace Grade) utilizza esclusivamente i migliori germogli primaverili, rappresentando meno del 5% di ogni raccolto. Questo Ripe Pu-erh offre una finezza impossibile con le foglie di grado standard.
  2. Il vantaggio della conservazione a secco di Xi'an—purezza garantita: Il nostro esclusivo ambiente di conservazione nell'entroterra di Xi'an (clima semi-arido, umidità 40-55%) produce un liquore eccezionalmente pulito e luminoso, privo di sentori di muffa o sapori anomali tipici della conservazione umida costiera.
  3. Selezione curata multi-annata (2002-2021): Scegli il profilo di invecchiamento che preferisci—dalla complessità pienamente matura del 2002/2005 alla vivace morbidezza delle annate recenti. Nessun altro fornitore offre questa gamma in condizioni di conservazione identiche.
  4. Zero sentore di cumulo, massima eleganza: L'invecchiamento a secco prolungato ha trasformato completamente qualsiasi nota residua di fermentazione (Wò Duī Wèi, 渥堆味) in pura fragranza invecchiata (Chén Xiāng, 陈香), note medicinali e una sottile dolcezza di dattero.
  5. Una sensazione in bocca setosa che definisce la qualità premium: Il materiale tenero composto solo da germogli crea una consistenza vellutata e avvolgente inconfondibile — morbida come seta liquida — che i tè di qualità inferiore con gambi e foglie grossolane semplicemente non possono raggiungere.

La storia dietro questo tè

Nel mondo del Pu-erh maturo (Shóu Pǔ'ěr, 熟普洱), la classificazione conta profondamente. Mentre la maggior parte dei shou pu-erh commerciali mescola insieme varie categorie di foglie, Gongting — letteralmente "Corte Imperiale" — si distingue. Questa denominazione nacque dalla pratica di riservare solo il tè più delicato alla famiglia imperiale cinese. Oggi, l'autentico Gongting segue lo stesso principio: solo i germogli primaverili più piccoli e teneri sono idonei. Quando esamini le nostre foglie sfuse, noterai l'aspetto compatto e uniforme e le caratteristiche punte dorate (Jīn Háo, 金毫) che indicano materiale autentico di grado imperiale. Non ci sono gambi visibili, né foglie grossolane — solo tè puro e raffinato.

Ciò che distingue davvero questa collezione, tuttavia, è il luogo in cui ha trascorso gli anni dalla produzione. Xi'an, antica capitale di tredici dinastie cinesi, sorge nell'entroterra dell'Altipiano del Loess, un clima radicalmente diverso dalle umide città costiere dove invecchia la maggior parte del pu-erh. Il nostro magazzino mantiene le condizioni asciutte e stabili (Gān Cāng, 干仓) che i veri collezionisti cercano specificamente. Questo ambiente consente al tè di maturare gradualmente e naturalmente, sviluppando complessità senza i rischi di muffa, odori di stantio o del pesante "sapore di magazzino" (Cāng Wèi, 仓味) che può sopraffare i tè conservati in ambienti umidi. Il risultato? Un infuso di straordinaria limpidezza e purezza, con sapori che raccontano il tè stesso anziché la sua storia di conservazione.

Ogni annata della nostra collezione — 2002, 2005, 2007, 2013, 2015, 2017 e 2021 — rappresenta un punto specifico del percorso di invecchiamento. Le annate più vecchie hanno perso ogni traccia del processo di fermentazione (Wò Duī, 渥堆), rivelando un profondo aroma invecchiato, sentori di medicina tradizionale cinese e una dolcezza che ricorda i datteri jujube essiccati. Le annate più giovani mostrano il carattere morbido e cioccolatoso di uno shou ben realizzato, con la promessa di decenni di ulteriore evoluzione. Qualunque annata scegliate, la garanzia della conservazione a secco di Xi'an significa che state assaporando il tè nel suo migliore e più autentico stato.

Pronti a iniziare il vostro viaggio nel tè Shou/Puerh maturo?

Perché fidarsi di questa collezione:

  • Provenienza verificata dello stoccaggio a secco: Ogni grammo è stato conservato esclusivamente presso la nostra struttura di Xi'an in condizioni controllate di secco—documentato, tracciabile e garantito privo di difetti di conservazione.
  • Materiale autentico di grado imperiale: Selezione Gongting autentica dalle migliori regioni teicole dello Yunnan, utilizzando solo gemme tenere raccolte in primavera che soddisfano i più severi standard di classificazione.
  • Formati flessibili per ogni esigenza: Disponibile in lattine da 100 g, 200 g, 500 g e 1 kg—perfetto sia che tu stia assaggiando il tuo primo shou invecchiato sia che tu stia costruendo una collezione seria.

Scopri ciò che decenni di stoccaggio a secco a Xi'an e il massimo grado di foglia possono offrire. Questo Pu-erh shou maturo Gongting Imperiale rappresenta l'apice dell'artigianato dello shou pu-erh—setoso, puro e straordinariamente elegante. Selezione multi-annata disponibile fino a esaurimento scorte. Aggiungi al carrello ora e assapora la differenza che un autentico stoccaggio a secco fa.

Explore All Ripe Pu-erh Tea →

Tasting notes

Appearance & Aroma (Dry Leaf)

  • Visual: Tightly rolled, uniformly fine leaves displaying deep chestnut-brown to dark mahogany coloration with an oily, lustrous sheen. Abundant golden tips (Jīn Háo) visible throughout. Remarkably clean presentation with virtually no stems or coarse material—a hallmark of authentic Gongting grade.
  • Dry Aroma: Inviting aged fragrance (Chén Xiāng) with layers of dried longan, subtle cocoa powder, sandalwood, and a whisper of dried jujube dates. Older vintages (2002-2007) reveal deeper medicinal/herbal notes (Yào Xiāng, 药香). Notably absent: any mustiness, dampness, or residual pile odor.

Wet Leaf (After Brewing)

  • Appearance: Fully opened leaves remain remarkably intact and tender, displaying a uniform dark brown-black coloration. The bud-dominant material is clearly evident—small, delicate, and consistent.
  • Aroma: Rich and enveloping. Sweet earth, aged wood, hints of dried plum and preserved fruit. Clean and focused without any "swampy" or off-putting notes.

Liquor Color

  • Description: Brilliant jewel-like ruby red to deep wine red (older vintages). Younger vintages present a transparent chestnut-amber. All vintages display exceptional clarity and depth—no cloudiness or opacity—the honest mark of clean fermentation and proper dry storage.

Mouthfeel (Texture & Sensation)

  • Texture: Exceptionally velvety and silk-smooth (Huá, 滑)—the defining characteristic of premium Gongting material. Medium-thick viscosity that coats the palate gently without heaviness.
  • Body: Full and satisfying, yet elegantly refined rather than dense or soupy.
  • Hui Gan (Returning Sweetness): Pronounced and long-lasting. A clean, honeyed sweetness rises from the throat and lingers for minutes after each sip.
  • Sheng Jin (Salivation): Gentle and persistent, creating a refreshing sensation that invites continued drinking.
  • Astringency: None. Zero bitterness or roughness—smooth from first contact through the finish.

Core Flavor Notes

  • Primary: Dark chocolate, cocoa nibs, brown sugar, dried dates (Hóng Zǎo), aged wood
  • Secondary: Sandalwood, camphor (older vintages), subtle licorice, dried longan, hints of molasses
  • Tertiary (2002-2007): Aged medicinal herbs, antique furniture, preserved plum, light leather
  • Overall Profile: Comparable to a well-aged Barolo or vintage Port—deep, complex, and evolved, yet maintaining elegance and balance

Empty Cup & Finish (Aroma Retention)

  • Empty Cup Aroma: Sweet and persistent. Notes of caramel, aged honey, and distant florals linger in the cup long after drinking.
  • Finish: Extended and warming. The aftertaste evolves over 5-10 minutes, revealing new layers of sweetness and subtle complexity. Clean exit with no unpleasant residue.

Body Sensation / Chaqi (Tea Energy)

  • Physical Warmth: Gentle, radiating warmth from the core—comforting without being overpowering. Ideal for cooler seasons or evening sessions.
  • Relaxation Response: Calming and grounding. Many drinkers report a sense of centered tranquility.
  • Digestive Comfort: Soothing on the stomach; an excellent after-meal tea
  • Chaqi Intensity: 3.5/5 (Moderate-Strong) — Present and noticeable but refined rather than aggressive. The older vintages (2002-2007) display more pronounced and lingering body sensations.

Brewing guide

Gongfu Method (Recommended for Full Expression)

The traditional gongfu approach best reveals the complexity and multiple infusion potential of this Imperial Gongting ripe pu-erh.

  • Leaf Amount: 5-7 grams per 100ml vessel capacity
  • Water Temperature: 95°C-100°C (203°F-212°F)—fully boiling water is ideal
  • Vessel: Gaiwan, Yixing clay teapot, or porcelain teapot
  • Rinse: One quick rinse (5 seconds) with boiling water; discard this liquid to awaken the leaves and wash away any surface dust
  • Infusion Times:1st-3rd infusions: 10-15 seconds4th-6th infusions: 15-25 seconds7th-10th infusions: 25-45 seconds11th+ infusions: 45-90 seconds
  • Expected Infusions: 12-18 quality infusions from well-stored Gongting material
  • Tips: Pre-warm your vessel with hot water before adding leaves. For the older vintages (2002-2007), consider a double rinse to fully awaken the leaves. Adjust steeping time based on personal strength preference.

Grandpa Style (Casual All-Day Drinking)

This effortless approach suits workplace or travel situations where full gongfu preparation is impractical.

  • Leaf Amount: 2-3 grams per 300-400ml mug or thermos
  • Water Temperature: 95°C-100°C (203°F-212°F)
  • Method: Place leaves directly in your mug. Pour hot water to fill approximately two-thirds. Wait 2-3 minutes for leaves to settle and open. Sip from the top, refilling with hot water throughout the day as needed.
  • Tips: The fine Gongting leaves sink quickly. Top up when approximately one-third liquid remains to maintain consistent strength.

Western Style (Teapot Method)

Suitable for serving multiple cups with a simpler approach.

  • Leaf Amount: 4-5 grams per 300-400ml teapot
  • Water Temperature: 95°C-100°C (203°F-212°F)
  • Steep Time: 3-4 minutes for first infusion; add 1-2 minutes for subsequent steeps
  • Expected Infusions: 3-5 quality infusions
  • Tips: Use a mesh strainer or infuser basket for easy leaf removal.

French Press Method

An accessible approach using common Western equipment.

  • Leaf Amount: 5-6 grams per 350ml French press capacity
  • Water Temperature: 95°C-100°C (203°F-212°F)
  • Steep Time: 3-4 minutes; press and pour completely
  • Expected Infusions: 2-3 quality infusions
  • Tips: Pour all liquid after each steep to prevent over-extraction.

Simmering/Boiling Method (Zhǔ Chá, 煮茶)

Particularly suited to older vintages, this method extracts maximum depth.

  • Leaf Amount: 5-8 grams per 500-800ml water
  • Method: Add leaves to room temperature water in a heat-safe pot or tea stove kettle. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3-5 minutes. Pour and serve.
  • Tips: Excellent for 2002-2007 vintages. Can re-simmer the same leaves 2-3 times, adding 2-3 minutes each round.

Thermos Flask Steeping (Mèn Pào, 焖泡)

Ideal for extracting rich flavor with minimal attention.

  • Leaf Amount: 3-5 grams per 500ml thermos capacity
  • Water Temperature: 95°C-100°C (203°F-212°F)
  • Method: Add leaves to preheated thermos. Fill with boiling water, seal, and let steep for 30-60 minutes.
  • Tips: Produces a strong, full-bodied brew. Suitable for cold weather or when extended drinking sessions are planned.

Storage

Proper storage ensures your Imperial Gongting continues developing beautifully or maintains its current character.

Ideal Conditions:

  • Humidity: 55-70% relative humidity—avoid extremes in either direction
  • Temperature: Stable 20-28°C (68-82°F); avoid frequent fluctuations
  • Light: Store away from direct sunlight and fluorescent lighting
  • Air Quality: Clean, odor-free environment is essential—tea readily absorbs surrounding aromas
  • Ventilation: Minimal air circulation; sealed containers with occasional brief opening

Practical Storage Options:

  • Short-term (under 1 year): Original sealed tin in a cool, dark cupboard away from spices, coffee, or strong-smelling items
  • Long-term aging: Transfer to a dedicated ceramic jar, food-grade clay container, or cardboard box lined with clean paper. Store in a stable location away from kitchen odors.
  • Avoid: Refrigeration, plastic bags for long-term storage, proximity to perfumes/cleaning products/spices

Aging Expectations:

  • Properly stored Gongting ripe pu-erh will continue refining for 20-30+ years
  • The Xi'an dry storage foundation ensures a clean starting point for continued home aging
  • Younger vintages (2017-2021) have the most transformation potential ahead
  • Older vintages (2002-2007) are at or near peak but will maintain quality for decades

Packaging & use

Scan the QR code on the label for tea details and brewing instructions.

Session estimates use a fresh portion of dry tea each time. Each portion can be infused repeatedly.

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