2007 CNNP "8891 Red Label" Raw Pu-erh Tea Cake

8891 Red Mark is one of two 8891's released in 2007 by the China Tea Co (aka Zhong Cha/CNNP). The other 8891 is a brown label and is identical in all regards to the red label. We love confusing stuff like this. I tasted both side by side and could not tell them apart. I like red on pu-erh wrappers better!

Most importantly this tea is incredibly good tasting and has a very unique flavor profile. It's been stored in Guangdong since 2007 in a dry-wet storage condition (wet stored but on the dry side of the wet storage spectrum). The raw material is from Nan Jian area of Yunnan which is technically part of Dali prefecture. I suspect the given the name "Da Li Cang Shan Xue Yin Yuan Cha" (Dali Town, Cang Mountain, Snow Mark Round Cake) and the font used that this was pressed for the CNNP company by the Nan Jian Tu Lin tea company. The material is fairly tippy, large leaf and obviously pure assamica. Not only that, but the raw material used is not from young plantation bushes as it's quite burly and large in scale.

Compression is medium, not too tight at all and the leaves easily separate in layers from the cake. The tea brews up an orange-red tea soup with a pungent aroma of flowers, mushrooms and earth. The taste is clean with no musty wet storage notes, but does have some some earthy notes. There is a kind of pronounced spice and cloves taste and aroma with a strong viscous sweetness throughout. I have a hard time putting words to this experience, but I find myself wanting to drink it again and again.

Actual colors of the tea may vary somewhat from pictured. Purchase the smallest amount to try before purchasing larger amounts.

Effects and functions of drinking Pu-erh tea

1. Aid digestion and relieve greasiness
Pu-erh tea contains rich tea polyphenols and caffeine, which can stimulate gastric juice secretion and help digestion. In addition, its degreasing properties make it an ideal tea to pair with greasy food, helping to relieve stomach discomfort.

2. Assist in reducing fat and losing weight
The active ingredients in Pu-erh tea can promote fat metabolism. Long-term drinking has a certain effect on lowering cholesterol and triglycerides in the body, so it is favored by many people who want to lose weight.

3. Assist in lowering blood sugar and blood lipids
The tea polysaccharides and fermentation products in Pu-erh tea have a certain effect on regulating blood sugar and lowering blood lipids. It is especially suitable for diabetic patients and people with high blood lipids to drink in moderation.

4. Assist in anti-oxidation and anti-aging
Pu-erh tea contains rich antioxidants, such as tea polyphenols, vitamin C, etc., which can effectively remove free radicals, delay aging, and improve immunity.

5. Assist in antibacterial and anti-inflammatory
The fermentation process of Pu-erh tea produces a large number of beneficial microorganisms. These substances have a certain inhibitory effect on gastrointestinal bacteria, which helps to improve gastrointestinal health and relieve mild inflammation.

6. Helps refresh the mind
The caffeine in Pu-erh tea can stimulate the central nervous system, help improve concentration and relieve fatigue, but the stimulation to the nerves is relatively mild and is not likely to cause palpitations.

7. Helps maintain health and nourish the stomach
Fermented Pu-erh tea is warm in nature, less irritating, and does not hurt the stomach. Moderate drinking has a protective effect on the stomach, especially ripe Pu-erh, which is more suitable for people with weak stomachs.

Important Note:
While tea offers numerous health benefits, it should not replace medications for treating diseases. It is also important to consume it in moderation, as drinking too much strong tea can cause side effects like insomnia or gastrointestinal discomfort. Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and individuals with insomnia should consult a doctor and drink the tea cautiously based on their specific conditions.

Tags: CNNP, 8891, Raw, Pu-erh Tea, Cake