2015 Hei Cha Brick, Hunan Province

This highly compressed 1-kilogram Hei Cha brick, produced in 2015 by the Zhong Cha Hunan Anhua Tea Factory, represents the rich heritage of post-fermented teas from Hunan Province, China. Zhong Cha, a respected tea producer since the mid-20th century, is well known for its expertise in Hei Cha, Pu-erh, and Liu Bao-style teas. Unlike Fu Zhuan varieties, this brick does not contain "Golden Flowers" (Eurotium cristatum), resulting in a pure and unadorned fermentation profile. Aged for ten years, it has developed a deep, earthy character, highly valued in regions like Mongolia and Tibet, where Hei Cha is prized for its digestive benefits. Due to its tight compression, this brick requires a sturdy tea knife to break apart. Crafted primarily from leaf material with fewer stems than traditional bricks, it yields a smooth, refined liquor. The taste is bold and warming, featuring rich earthy notes, hints of dark wood, and a gentle sweetness that rounds out the finish. A well-matured tea that exemplifies Zhong Cha’s mastery in Hei Cha production. Weight per brick: 1 kg Vintage: 2015 Compression: Highly pressed