Meng Hai 1990´ shu Tuo Cha 220g

The Meng Hai 1990’s Shu Tuo Cha “9016” represents an exceptional mature (shu) pu-erh from the renowned Kunming Tea Factory. First released in the early 1990s, it is now considered a rare surviving tea from that era — a genuine collectible piece that is difficult to find on today’s market.

The tea material was processed using a gentle “light piling” fermentation technique, which allowed it to continue developing harmoniously and to mature gracefully over the following decades. As a result, it displays a strong cha qi (tea energy), a harmonious, deeply layered flavor,and a rich, complex aroma. The fermentation isremarkably even, both inside and out, reflected in a clear, deep red, and brilliantly bright liquor.

The taste profile is mature, full-bodied, aromatic, round, and velvety smooth, with a pronounced mouthfeel and a lingering sweet aftertaste. This tea also withstands numerous infusions, making it perfect for extended brewing sessions.

Why it stands out

• Authentic early 1990s Shu Tuo Cha from the Kunming Tea Factory

• Excellent fermentation technique – producing a tea with a pure, refined, long-lasting aroma, a bright, clear, and highly viscous liquor, and a rich, mature, full flavor with exceptional persistence on the palate. This distinguishes it from ordinary shu pu-erhs. In its early years, the tea was known for a faint camphor note, which has since evolved through long-term aging into a deep, mature aroma with subtle ginseng undertones.

• The “light piling” (mild wet fermentation) method behind this tuo cha is the key to understanding its uniqueness. It relies on precisely controlling microbial activity and fermentation time so that the tea leaves ferment slightly less intensely than in conventional processing. The goal is to preserve ample potential for further transformation during subsequent aging. This method can be likened to slow, gentle cooking, preserving delicate nuances and resulting in an exceptionally complex and refined tea.