Ripe Puerh Gaiwan Challenge Day One

It’s damn cold these past few days so I’m going with ripe puerh more than usual.  It dawned on me that perhaps a ripe puerh gaiwan challenge was in order.  For the next five days, I figure to sample some ripes and offer my impressions.  We’re starting with the ’07 Silver Peacock, XG.

The ’07 Silver Peacock, XG is already a very Zen ripe puerh.  Brewing in the gaiwan mutes a certain zing imparted by the clay.  At the same time, certain fruit notes that have been remarked upon by others was more evident.  The most surprising aspect of the experience was the contrast between the Zen broth and the strength of the lingering aftertaste, which is deeply satisfying and calming.  The experience seemed lighter than in my clay pot.