Huang Pian (黃片, Huáng Piàn, "Yellow Leaves") - The name of this tea refers to the older leaves of the Pu'er plant. Tea in general is produced from the new growth of the tea plant, which is a long-lived perennial that sends forth new leaves seasonally, most notably in the spring. The new leaves and unopened leaf-buds are what make up high grade Chinese tea as we are most familiar with it. The farmers, after selling off the most valuable part of their crop, will retain and drink the yellowed older leaves for themselves. These leaves are much larger and more mature than normal tea. Many Pu'er farmers, especially seniors, actually prefer the robust taste of these less refined lower leaves, as well as the warmer and more mellow Qi. Our Huáng Piàn are from the large leaf Pu'er trees of Nannuo Mountain, ranging in age from a decade to several centuries old. They produce a stout Sheng Pu'er with a smooth, dry mouthfeel, golden liquor, notes of leather and old library, and milder flavor and energy than most young Shengs.
