CLIO ’04 test

Master Ke’s favorite tea garden is located in the mountainous area of Anxi county, near the settlement of Xiang, the world-famous birthplace of Tieguanyin. Here, at an altitude of over 800 meters, optimal climatic conditions prevail: an average annual temperature of 20°C, abundant sunshine alternating with fog, and an annual rainfall of 1700–1900 mm.
The harvest was gathered in the autumn of 2004 from 5-year-old tea bushes.

This Tieguanyin belongs to the Chen Xiang category (Chinese for “Mature” or “Aged Aroma”). Over the past 20 years, it has been specially stored and periodically lightly roasted to ensure proper aging and aroma development. This very complex procedure is carried out by an experienced master with whom our Ke has collaborated for more than 30 years.
As a result, the traditional Nong Xiang (light-fire roast) has not only transformed into an exquisite Chen Xiang but has also fully earned the right to be called Lao Tieguanyin — a properly aged, high-quality oolong.