Ask about Menghai Aged Ripe Pu-erh Tea Heads · Lao Cha Tou
Ripe Pu-erh Tea
Lao Cha Tou: a dense ripe-tea format
Lao Cha Tou are dense clusters formed during ripe Pu-erh processing. This Menghai tea makes a smooth, full-bodied cup. The compact clusters open more slowly than loose leaves, so give the first brew a little time.
Tea heads are dense clusters formed during ripe pu-erh processing. Their shape gives you a different brewing rhythm from loose shou leaves: water may take longer to reach the interior. Choose them if you enjoy following the gradual opening of a portion rather than expecting every first infusion to look the same.
- Ingredients
- Ripe pu-erh tea leaves
- Origin
- Menghai, Yunnan, China
- Format
- Dense ripe pu-erh tea nodules
At home
Preparing your cup
Mug or teapot: start with 3 g per 250 ml, 95–100°C / 203–212°F, 2–4 minutes. Gongfu: start with 4–6 g per 100–120 ml, 95–100°C / 203–212°F, 15–25 seconds for the first infusion. Pour out fully and lengthen later steeps gradually.
Keep dry tea in a cool, dry, odour-free place, protected from sunlight, heat and moisture. Close the pack after use and keep aromatic blends separate from strong-smelling foods.
Weigh the clusters and give them room. If the first cup seems restrained, let the portion open through another infusion before adding a large extra amount of tea.
Compare mug and gongfu preparation · Look after the remaining tea.
A useful comparison
Find the distinction that matters to you.
For comparison, Menghai Ripe Pu-erh Loose-Leaf Tea: Loose-leaf ripe Pu-erh from Menghai. A deep red infusion, rounded body and subtle sweetness, with the mellow, earthy character of shou tea.
The tea finder helps with a different flavour direction. For a cultural starting point, explore the Five Elements collection alongside the tea’s actual description.
The Five Elements collection
Water
A cultural connection to explore alongside the flavour of your tea.
Explore Water teasHow do I brew it?
Mug or teapot: start with 3 g per 250 ml, 95–100°C / 203–212°F, 2–4 minutes. Gongfu: start with 4–6 g per 100–120 ml, 95–100°C / 203–212°F, 15–25 seconds for the first infusion. Pour out fully and lengthen later steeps gradually.
What should I confirm about the pack?
Ask us for the current net contents or portion count if it is not shown in the listing. That detail helps you compare a single pack with a paired set before buying.
Does this tea contain caffeine?
Yes. The regular tea leaves contain caffeine, including when blended with flowers or citrus. We do not infer a tested caffeine amount from the colour, age or name of the tea. Read the caffeine guide.
Where can I check delivery and after-sales information?
Shipping and delivery explains preparation and the checkout options. For an item issue, use customer support and the published Refund Policy.