1990 Menghai Grand Red Label

It would depend on its storage condition, wouldn't it? If it's been through wet storage, you might find it quite easy to drink now. Otherwise, it could still be a bit raw. If wet storage is not your thing, then buying a cake sight unseen is .... taking a big chance on things.

You can buy palatable older sheng that is drinkable now in Hong Kong for a reasonable price. I seem to remember you saying you have relatives there. Maybe you can ask them to get it for you?

MarshalN

Hmmm, generationtea is accessible to me today in Beijing! Miracle.

The cake looks wet. At least it looks from the tiny photo in there.

MarshalN

Oh, of course dependant on storage conditions, was just wondering if anybody had any experience with this particular tea. I'm too impatient to wait for greens to ripen so I don't mind shelling out money for a good aged cake (green or ripe) that I can enjoy now. From what I have read this Red Label should be a good one if aged and kept well. However will try to acquire a sample to taste before deciding. Even though the ankle-biters have left home I still need to pay the mortgage !

You have a good memory Marshall, yes my daughter-in-law's parents live in HK and I do have a couple of work acquaintances up there too. Explaining what I'm after to the in-laws may be difficult - they don't speak English and I don't speak Cantonese or Mandarin - but I might have more luck with the workmates.

BTW what in the photo suggests to you that it was wet stored ?

Cheers Mal Oz

Michael from GenerationTea has been kind enough to offer a 1 ounce sample of this tea for me to try. Talk about quick and excellent service.

This has made my day.

Cheers Mal Oz