Silver Sword Sheng Puerh (2012)

Tea Type

Silver Sword is a Sheng Pu-erh (raw pu-erh), one of the most traditional tea styles from China. Sheng pu-erh is minimally processed and sun-dried, allowing the tea to naturally evolve over time through slow microbial and oxidative aging.

When young, sheng pu-erh is vibrant, aromatic, and energetic. With proper storage, it gradually transforms over the years into a deeper, smoother, and more complex tea.

Origin & Tea Specifics

Silver Sword originates from the mountain tea regions of Yunnan Province, China, an area known as the birthplace of pu-erh tea. The leaves come from the Yunnan large-leaf tea variety (Camellia sinensis var. assamica), famous for its bold character and strong aging potential.

The tea style was traditionally known as Da Bai Hao, meaning “large white hairs.” This name refers to the fine silvery trichomes that cover the young tea buds. These tiny hairs protect the buds and help preserve aromatic compounds, giving the leaves their distinct silver shimmer.

Because the buds are long and slender, the dry leaves resemble thin silver blades, inspiring the modern name Silver Sword.

Brewing Method

Use 85–95°C water.

1. Briefly rinse the leaves for a few seconds to awaken the tea.
   
   

2. Steep 4–5 g per 200 ml of water.
   
   

3. First infusion: 5–10 seconds, gradually increasing time with each steep.
   
   

Silver Sword can be brewed many times, with the flavor evolving throughout the session.

Effect & Taste Profile

Silver Sword offers the lively character typical of young sheng pu-erh.

Aroma

• wild herbs
  
  

• fresh hay
  
  

• subtle honeyed florals
  
  

Taste

• bright bitterness
  
  

• gentle drying astringency
  
  

• quick returning sweetness known as huigan
  
  

Finish

• cooling sensation in the throat
  
  

• lingering sweetness that slowly develops after each sip
  
  

This tea has a clear, energizing effect, often appreciated for its ability to bring focus and mental clarity.

Aging Potential

Like many sheng pu-erh teas, Silver Sword can be aged for many years. Over time the tea gradually transforms:

• bitterness softens
  
  

• sweetness deepens
  
  

• aromas evolve toward wood, honey, and dried fruit
  
  

With proper storage, the tea can continue developing complexity for 10–20 years or more.

Tea Heritage

Pu-erh tea has been traded for centuries along the historic Tea Horse Road, where compressed teas traveled by caravan from Yunnan to Tibet and across Southeast Asia. Silver Sword reflects this long tradition of mountain tea craftsmanship and the timeless culture of aged pu-erh.