2005 Zhongcha “Apple Green” 7542 Raw Pu-erh Tea | Guangdong Stored Aged Sheng Pu-erh

The 2005 Zhongcha "Apple Green" 7542 Raw Pu-erh Tea is a distinguished vintage Sheng Pu-erh produced by Menghai Tea Factory — one of China's most revered Pu-erh producers. The 7542 recipe has long been considered a benchmark standard in traditional raw Pu-erh, and this "Apple Green" edition is particularly prized among collectors for its refined leaf quality and elegant aging trajectory.

The cake surface displays clear, well-defined tea strands with a glossy oily sheen, reflecting the richness of the carefully selected material. With a high proportion of tender buds and young leaves, the tea delivers a balanced yet powerful profile that has only deepened with time.

Naturally aged in Guangdong's warm, humid environment for nearly two decades, this tea has undergone a graceful transformation — the bold, astringent character of its youth has evolved into a smooth, layered, and deeply satisfying cup. The brewed liquor is rich and full-bodied, offering a beautiful blend of floral and fruity fragrance with gentle aged notes, a thick and lively mouthfeel, and a powerful returning sweetness that lingers long after each sip.

A remarkable expression of classic Menghai craftsmanship, aged to perfection — ideal for collectors and connoisseurs who appreciate the depth and transformation of vintage Sheng Pu-erh.

• Iconic 7542 Classic Recipe – One of the most celebrated benchmark formulas in traditional raw Pu-erh, produced by the legendary Menghai Tea Factory
• Rare "Apple Green" Edition – A highly sought-after collector's variant known for its refined leaf selection, vibrant tea energy, and exceptional aging potential
• 20+ Years of Guangdong Natural Storage – Naturally aged since 2005 in Guangdong's warm, humid climate, developing a mature Chen Xiang (aged fragrance) while preserving the lively Menghai character
• Premium Leaf Quality – High proportion of tender buds and young leaves with a beautiful oily sheen, reflecting the richness and vitality of the original material
• Collector's Grade Vintage Sheng – A 357g cake of rare aged raw Pu-erh, prized by serious collectors and experienced Pu-erh enthusiasts worldwide

Rinse & Awaken
Break off 5–8g of tea and rinse once with boiling water (100°C / 212°F) for 5–10 seconds. Discard the rinse water to open the compressed leaves and awaken the aged aroma.

Brewing Method (Gongfu Style Recommended)
• Teaware: Yixing clay pot or porcelain gaiwan
• Water Temperature: 100°C / 212°F (full boil)
• Tea Amount: 5–8g per 100–150ml
• First 3 Infusions: 15–25 seconds
• Subsequent Infusions: Gradually extend by 10–15 seconds each
• Yield: 10–15+ infusions

Alternative: Western Style
Use 3–4g per 300ml, steep for 2–3 minutes at 100°C. A convenient option for a lighter, everyday brew.

Tasting Tip
The 7542 recipe is known for its endurance and complexity across many infusions. Early steeps reveal bright floral and fruity notes, while later infusions develop a deeper, warmer sweetness with subtle Chen Xiang — a hallmark of well-aged Menghai Sheng Pu-erh.

Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated space away from strong odors and direct sunlight. Avoid airtight containers — aged Pu-erh benefits from gentle air circulation to continue its natural transformation.