2001 vs 2005 Xiaguan 8653 Iron

// Published November 18, 2021 by mgualt

It is remarkable how close in taste these teas are; it really shows the ability of Xiaguan to maintain very consistent taste in their recipes.

It’s difficult to convey smoke notes to people, as their references are usually quite extreme and sticky. Both these teas are smoky in a very particular way, which reminds me of the smell of unburned natural Tibetan-style incense. It is smoky but not really a smoked meat, certainly not smoked ham or cigarette smoke, and not liquid smoke. The origin of the typical Xiaguan smoke remains shrouded in mystery, I still have not read a believable account.

There is a some acridity and harshness in the development for the 2005. Difficult to describe, it’s unclear if it’s a slightly acrid part of the smoke note or if it’s a tinge of brassiness in the underlying tea, but it is clear there is a little pea under the 2005’s mattress which isn’t in the 2001.

The 2001 has slightly more sweetness in the aftertaste and an oilier texture which is very pleasant.

The pattern continues with the wet leaf: on the 2001 there is a wonderful incense and wood bitters smell, while on the 2005 there is a comparatively aggressive aroma. But both are enjoyable, woody, and sweet smelling.

The dry leaves of both teas are quite crystallized and glassy, which seems to me to be a great sign re. processing and future development.

The storage on both teas is natural Taiwan storage, different but both clean and free of any dank or musty notes.

The wet leaf on the 2001 is indeed a bit redder, a sign of aging.

Good strong teas, both of them. Sweet, active in the mouth, relaxing and uplifting. Very enjoyable. The 2005 is the January thick paper version, considered the best batch, and I am curious to see if the 2005 will end up as good as the 2001, or if the underlying material isn’t quite as good.

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