Liubao Lao Ba Zhong Cha

Long, crumpled leaves interspersed with a number of tawny-haired buds, this Liubao is a commemorative edition of the ‘Lao Ba Zhong Tea Box’ series, replicating Zhong Cha’s iconic packaging used for export during the 1960s and ’70s. Having been fermented for four years, it has gained the wet storage taste Liubao become so popular for: think of sheltering from summer rain in an old forest temple, wet wood and the surrounding soil almost steaming. Aside from absorbing the scent of the bamboo baskets the tea is traditionally aged in, a tingly hint of betel nut has developed, and the inky infusion rounds off with a touch of blackcurrant on the tongue.

Available in the 250g ‘purple box’ Zhong Cha tins, as well as smaller pouches.