Large Tribute Ripe Pu-erh Tea Brick (4.7) · 3 reviews

First, a confession: I'm wary of writing too good a review and seeing the stocks of this tea disappear. Fortunately, I've already laid in some reserves. I've been buying the 2004 Large Tribute Brick steadily for about 4 years, and it has never disappointed me.

This is a great value tea. At $46 for 250 grams, you are not likely to find a better price / quality relationship.

No tea can be a value based on cost alone; it has to smell and taste great. And this tea does. It has an earthy aroma, like a forest after a rainstorm. The mouthfeel is full bodied and very smooth; never any bitterness or harshness. The flavor can be slightly sweet or have hints of wild mushroom, depending on how long you steep it.

I take this in the car with me to drink en route to work, and often find myself commenting out loud, "D*** that's good!"

Get it while you still can.

After trying several Bana ripe pu-erh teas, I have settled on this as my favorite. I love the dark, rich, earthiness without a trace of bitterness. It holds its earthy flavor through multiple brews and leaves a satisfying finish that lingers in the throat. I've nearly given up coffee as I find this tea just as satisfying. There is a slight lift from the caffeine, but not so much that I hesitate to have a cup before bed and I never get an acid stomach from drinking it as I sometimes do with coffee.

I love trying different pu- erhs. This has become one of my favorites. I definitely would buy another brick.