2019 Xiaguan Jin Bang 8603 Raw Pu Erh Tea Cake 357g

This raw pu erh cake from Xiaguan Tuocha Factory is part of the Jin Bang series, an upgraded version of the classic 8603 recipe first introduced in 2005. In 2013, the production of the original 8603 was paused, and in 2019, the factory began producing it as the Jin Bang 8603, crafted with higher-quality, aged tea leaves.

Instead of using fresh tea leaves, this tea cake is made from 5-6 years pre-aged, raw pu erh tea. As a result, it has accumulated aroma and flavour through a decade of aging.

The Jin Bang 8603 tea cake delivers a clear, golden brew with a delightful honeyed aroma and subtle aged medicinal undertones. Its texture is smooth with a satisfying medium body. The Cha Qi (tea energy) is extraordinary, leaving a lasting, fragrant impression at the bottom of the cup.

It’s more than ready to drink now, but its aroma will continue to develop with further aging.

Explaining 8603

Xiaguan's four-digit recipe codes have helpful information. In this case, the first two digits (86) refer to the year the recipe was created. The third digit indicates the material used for the cake (0 stands for young leaves). The final digit (3) identifies the factory, Xiaguan Tuocha.

Jin Bang Series

"Jin Bang" translates to "golden list," and traditionally refers to the elite scholars who passed China’s imperial exams. Xiaguan factory borrowed this term to create the Jin Bang series, which includes upgraded versions of its classic recipes, using more refined materials and improved craftsmanship. First launched in 2014, the series features iconic cakes such as the Jin Bang 8603 (raw) and 8663 (ripe).