2015 Laobanzhang Ancient Tree Raw Pu'er Tea Cake

Bold · Complex · Unforgettable

Some teas ask you to slow down. This one commands it. A single sip of Laobanzhang and you understand why tea lovers call it the King of Pu'er.

✦ Taste Notes

The first sip is bold and assertive — a deep, earthy intensity with a hint of camphor and forest. Then something remarkable happens: the bitterness dissolves almost instantly into a long, sweet warmth that spreads through your chest and lingers for minutes. Notes of dried fruit and aged wood emerge with each re-steep, revealing new layers every time.

✦ Why You'll Love It

• Over 10 years of natural aging has softened the edges — what remains is pure depth and complexity
• Each cake can be re-steeped 10–15+ times, revealing something new with every pour
• The kind of tea you open for a quiet evening or a meaningful conversation
• A collector's piece — Laobanzhang cakes appreciate in character (and value) over time

✦ Where It Comes From

Laobanzhang village sits deep in the mountains of Menghai, Yunnan — one of the most remote and revered tea-growing areas in China. The ancient trees here are centuries old, their roots reaching deep into mineral-rich soil. The 2015 harvest was pressed into cakes and has been quietly aging ever since, developing the bold, complex character this region is famous for.

✦ How to Brew

Bring water to a full boil (100°C). Break off 5–7g from the cake and give it one quick rinse to wake the leaves. Then steep for 10–20 seconds to start — the tea will open up gradually. Each subsequent steep can go a little longer. Use a gaiwan or clay teapot for the best experience. This tea rewards patience.

✦ Shipping

We ship worldwide from China. Most orders arrive within 7–15 business days. Each cake is carefully wrapped and packed to protect it during transit. Tracking information will be sent once your order is dispatched.

✦ FAQ

How do I break the cake?
Use a pu'er pick or the back of a spoon to gently pry off a piece along the natural layers — avoid crushing the leaves.

Does it need special storage?
Keep it somewhere cool, dry, and well-ventilated. Avoid airtight containers — pu'er needs airflow to continue aging. Keep away from strong odors.

Is this caffeinated?
Yes — raw pu'er has moderate to high caffeine. Best enjoyed in the morning or early afternoon.

Can I age it further?
Absolutely. Stored well, this cake will continue to develop for many more years.