Qian Liang Cha 2017

2025 Tasting Notes

Qian Liang Cha 2017 — A Quiet Deepening

Revisiting Qian Liang Cha after time has passed is a reminder that some teas don’t announce their growth loudly—they simply settle in. What once felt underwhelming but somehow novel and surprising at the same time, has gently stepped out, maintaining that calm, composed, confidence while adding some surprising elements.

In earlier tastings, this Hunan dark tea stood out for its delicacy paired with an unexpectedly unique base (umami, bamboo, mushroom). Today, that structure is still there, but it’s smoother, more unified, and even more meditative. The tea has grown outwardly expressive introducing an unsweetened red bean adn pine bark note but still stays deeply introspective.

The liquor now pours a brilliant amber. The aroma has shifted away from subtle umami cues and toward something more articulated: bamboo, earth, and a gentle inwardness that asks you to slow down before you sip.

On the palate, Qian Liang Cha has gained patience. Bamboo shoot mingles with hints of evergreen bark and soft suggestions of mushroom/wet forest floor. There’s a familiar echo of seaweed, now quieter, and a striking note reminiscent of red bean paste without the sweetness—savory, rounded, and deeply satisfying. The finish lingers long after the cup is empty, not demanding attention, just calmly staying with you.

The mouthfeel has become one of this tea’s greatest strengths. It is thick, full-bodied, and luscious, coating the palate without heaviness. Each infusion feels steady and reliable, making this an ideal tea for long, unbroken sessions.

This is still a tea for contemplation. Still focused. Still calm. It simply sits with you. If you’re looking for a dark tea that encourages stillness rather than stimulation, Qian Liang Cha continues to be quietly exceptional.

2017 Tasting Notes (Original Notes)

Qian Liang Cha was a brand new tea experience for me. I’ve never had anything quite like this Hunan tea. When I brewed up the Qian Liang Cha, the liquor was gold with a hint of orange and since it’s a dark tea my preconceptions unconsciously went to sheng Pu’er, however, the flavour profile was totally different than any sheng Pu’er I’ve ever had. This tea is far more delicate on the surface, but has a really solid base. A single cube will last for many consistent, delicious infusions. There are notes of bamboo, fresh mushroom and hints of seaweed and something akin to dry hay and red bean in the later infusions. Right from the outset, Qian Liang Cha exhibited a complex, rich mouthfeel! For me, this is a perfect tea for meditating, as it not distracting, but instead is consistent, focused and calm. If you aren’t a big fan of sheng Pu’er and want a good after dinner tea, give this tea a try.