Ripe Tuo Cha (熟沱茶, shú tuó chá) is a traditional compressed mini-bowl style Pu’er tea from Yunnan Province. This 2015 batch offers a well-matured, mellow profile—perfect for everyday drinking and those new to ripe Pu’er.
Tuo Cha refers to its shape—small compressed domes that are convenient for storage and portioning. These mini cakes were traditionally used for trading and traveling across ancient tea routes.
Tea Profile
Type: Ripe Pu’er (Shou)
Origin: Menghai, Yunnan, China
Harvest Year: 2015
Cultivar: Yunnan Large-Leaf
Form: Tuo Cha (mini bowl-shaped)
Flavor: Smooth, earthy, notes of aged wood and sweet molasses
Aroma: Camphor, dried dates, hints of forest floor
Energy (Qi): Grounding and warming
Collected: 2015
Brewing Instructions
Gongfu Method (5oz / 150ml Gaiwan or Teapot):
Tea: 1 mini Tuo Cha (break apart slightly if desired)
Water Temp: 208–212°F (98–100°C)
Rinse: 1 quick rinse (optional but recommended)
Steep Time: Start with 10 sec, gradually increase
Number of Infusions: 8–12+
Cup Method (8.8oz / 250ml Mug):
Tea: 1 mini Tuo Cha
Water Temp: 208–212°F (98–100°C)
Steep Time: 2–4 minutes
Adjust based on personal preference for tea strength.
Why You’ll Love It
Aged 9+ years for deep flavor and smooth texture
Convenient portioned cakes for easy brewing
Warming and earthy—ideal for colder seasons
A perfect introduction to aged ripe Pu’er tea
Cultural Significance
Tuo Cha has been used since the Qing Dynasty for trade and travel, compact for horse caravans and easy storage. Its bowl shape symbolizes offering and hospitality, making it a cherished form among Pu’er lovers.
