班章金芽 Banzhang Jin Ya

Banzhang Jin Ya means 'Banzhang Golden Bud' — big-tree material from the Banzhang area of Menghai county, harvested in 2008 and pressed using traditional Menghai craft (勐海传统工艺) in 2019, after over a decade of pre-press conditioning in dry storage. The golden bud (jin ya) grade means the finest tippy shoots — those with visible golden down — were selected for this cake. In Banzhang material, where the trees are old and the terroir is distinctive, this level of selection produces something considerably above standard factory shu. The 2008 harvest year is significant: Banzhang material from that period predates the speculative pricing that came after the Lao Banzhang reputation exploded in the 2010s. Eleven years of dry storage before pressing, then another six years since — the total aging on this material is substantial. In the cup: dark honey, dried dates, a camphor accent and a smooth, warming finish with a naturally sweet aftertaste that develops over multiple steeps. Mouthfeel is silky and full. The golden bud selection means even texture and clean brewing from first to last steep. A premium aged shu at a price that reflects honest craftsmanship rather than brand markup. Worldwide delivery.