I was definitely not sure what to expect from this one because descriptions I have heard of Lao Cha Tou just sound so weird… since these nuggets are formed at the bottom of the pu-erh fermentation pile (while making shu puerh).
I did decide to follow the recommended instructions and I rinsed the nuggets three times. After that I infused my first batch in the gaiwan for about 60 seconds. I have to admit this does smell a little bit like a barnyard but I’m not one of those squeamish types. I got a very dark red liquor that is clear in color, slightly sweet and very earthy.
My second steep was only for around 30 seconds because the color already started getting so dark. I’m picking some some mushroom-y type flavors as well as the sweeter ones mentioned above.
Third steep seems like it starting to mellow out a bit and get slightly more grounded. Imagine shiitake mushrooms cooked with a handful of twigs and a touch of merlot and that’s starting to get close… lol. This is some pretty interesting stuff I must admit. I’m not sure if I would buy anymore but it’s pretty fun to try.
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Mushrooms, twigs, and merlot! Yum! Hahahahaha!! You’re hilarious!
I forgot to mention the eye of newt. :)
Hahaha….I was just thinking of an eye of newt Gingrich in your tea! hahaha. :))
Also, I read the title quickly and thought it read OLD TED NUGGENT! What’s wrong with me today?!
@Scott – lol
HI Amy! Thanks for writing this up! This particular vintage of old tea nugget has been our bestselling one to date. I usually start out at around a 30-40 second steeping and just keep doing that over and over. We have many customers who report 25-30 infusions before they call it quits! I must admit, it’s one of my favorites and I like the sweetness that comes through. I can’t tell you how many customers quit coffee on the spot when they have tasted this brewed up nice and strong :) Have a tea-riffic day, everyone!!!
Mushrooms, twigs, and merlot! Yum! Hahahahaha!! You’re hilarious!
I forgot to mention the eye of newt. :)
Hahaha….I was just thinking of an eye of newt Gingrich in your tea! hahaha. :))
Also, I read the title quickly and thought it read OLD TED NUGGENT! What’s wrong with me today?!
@Scott – lol
HI Amy! Thanks for writing this up! This particular vintage of old tea nugget has been our bestselling one to date. I usually start out at around a 30-40 second steeping and just keep doing that over and over. We have many customers who report 25-30 infusions before they call it quits! I must admit, it’s one of my favorites and I like the sweetness that comes through. I can’t tell you how many customers quit coffee on the spot when they have tasted this brewed up nice and strong :) Have a tea-riffic day, everyone!!!