Puerh resin is the oldest tea product

Puerh resin - from ancient traditions to your cup.

Puerh resin, also known as Cha Gao or tea paste, is one of the most unusual and wonderful forms of tea. This most valuable product embodies history, culture and, of course, incredible beneficial properties. In this article we will take a detailed look at the history of the origin of Cha Gao, its production technology, taste characteristics, beneficial properties, and how to brew this drink correctly.

Origin story

The history of puerh resin goes back to ancient times. Initially, this product was a way to preserve and transport tea. Travelers and traders following the Tea Route needed convenient forms of tea that could be easily transported and stored.

Production technology

Cha Gao is created from selected tea leaves of ancient tea trees using an extraction method. Pu-erh tea leaves are boiled, after which the water is removed from the resulting infusion, leaving a highly concentrated resin. This process may vary depending on the region and technology, but its essence remains the same: the concentration of beneficial elements and the unique taste of pu-erh.

From 80 kg of raw materials, only 1 kg of resin is obtained. So we can say that Pu-erh resin is 80 times the concentrate of tea leaves!

Beneficial features

Cha Gao retained all the beneficial properties of pu-erh and even enhanced them through concentration. The resin contains antioxidants, helps fight inflammation, improves digestion and helps lower cholesterol. Can be used as an addition to the diet - helps to get rid of excess weight.

Taste characteristics

Cha Gao has a richer, deeper taste compared to traditional pu-erh. It often has chocolate, woody and earthy notes. The aroma is unusual, woody and fruity, dense taste and soft sweetish aftertaste.

Effect

Cha Gao is known for its “tea intoxication” - a feeling of lightness, clarity of mind and high spirits after drinking. An excellent anti-stress, relieves tension and at the same time gives strength and physical activity, encourages action.

Types of Pu-erh Resin

Cha Gao can be either shu (ripe) or sheng (raw), and each type has its own characteristics. Shu Cha Gao is softer and lighter, while Sheng Cha Gao is more tart and complex in taste. Shen puerh resin is more tonic and invigorating, while Shu puerh resin is more likely to warm, calm, relieve stress and put you in a creative mood.

Pressing method

Cha Gao is usually pressed in the form of small granules - square, oval, round. This is done for ease of storage and use, as well as for ease of brewing.

Cooking method

To brew Cha Gao, you need hot but not boiling water (about 95°C). The resin is best brewed in a clay teapot or gaiwan. Brewing takes from 3 to 5 minutes, after which the tea can be poured into bowls.

However, you can also brew it by pouring - that is, reduce the infusion time to 15-30 seconds, and this process can be repeated several times, enjoying the developing flavors until the granules are completely dissolved.

1 granule can weigh from 0.5 to 2 grams. For 100 ml of drink, 0.5 grams is enough, you can take more if you like it stronger - there will be no bitterness!

You can also brew pu-erh resin in a thermos and take it with you. In this case, calculate the volume of your thermos and the weight of the granules.

Summary

Puerh resin or Cha Gao is not just another form of puerh. It's historical, culturally significant, and incredibly healthy and deserves a place in your tea collection. Don't miss the chance to get to know this amazing drink!