Dong Shan is a tea that has been part of our offerings since 2014, and it remains one of our most popular selections. Its appeal lies not only in its excellent balance of price and quality but also in its remarkable aging potential. Over time, this tea develops a distinctive aroma reminiscent of dried raisins, making it a favorite among those who appreciate the art of tea aging.
While aged Pu-erh tea is often celebrated for its deep and complex flavors, the true charm of this tea lies in its fresh and vibrant character, even in its compressed form as a tea cake. High-quality tea, especially Dong Shan Raw Pu-erh, is a delight to enjoy when freshly produced. Crafted from the first flush of tea leaves harvested in high-altitude gardens, it boasts a gentle, refined taste paired with a delicate floral fragrance.
Tasting this fresh batch of Dong Shan Raw Pu-erh is like being transported back to its origins—the lush, verdant mountains of Yunnan, the serene daily life in the highlands, the warm smiles of the locals, and the unforgettable meals shared there. Each sip evokes these vivid memories, offering a rich and immersive sensory experience.
To preserve its freshness, this tea is carefully packaged in an oxygen-free environment. For those curious about its aging potential, we recommend storing it unopened in a warm environment. Over the course of 2–3 years, the tea will develop a naturally sweet, matured fruity aroma, adding greater depth and complexity to its character.
Dong Shan Raw Pu-erh Tea: Excellence in Craft and Nature
Dong Shan Raw Pu-erh tea is crafted by producers equipped with advanced facilities. The tea is processed using thick, large woks, which prevent any burnt aroma and allow the natural fragrance of the tea leaves to be fully expressed. Furthermore, the factory where Dong Shan Raw Pu-erh is produced is located in the heart of a minority village, utilizing tea leaves from naturally cultivated tea gardens. This ensures a perfect balance between the quality of the raw materials and the skillful processing techniques.
Sourcing Tea from Naturally Cultivated Gardens
One of the greatest pleasures of drinking Pu-erh tea lies in experiencing the exceptionally rich flavor that only naturally cultivated tea can offer—often at a surprisingly reasonable price. Achieving this level of quality with other teas, such as oolong, green, or black tea, would typically come at an exorbitant cost. However, not all Pu-erh tea from Yunnan meets these standards.
In fact, over 90%—and by my estimation, more than 99%—of Pu-erh tea production in Yunnan has shifted from traditional natural cultivation methods, which have been practiced for thousands of years, to modern agricultural practices involving fertilizers and pesticides. This shift has been driven by the development of roads and an influx of tourists, which has also led to a rise in tea prices without corresponding improvements in quality. As a result, many teas lack the deep, rich flavor that natural cultivation imparts.
To ensure we source only the finest naturally cultivated teas, we spend a month every year in the remote mountain regions of Yunnan. Finding high-quality tea requires venturing further into the isolated and less accessible areas. Through this dedicated effort, we bring back teas with unparalleled richness and depth, allowing you to experience the true essence of naturally cultivated Pu-erh tea.