Rich, grounding, and deeply nourishing, this fermented tea is crafted in the traditional shou style—a method prized not only for its bold, earthy profile but also for its gut-friendly probiotic benefits.
We begin by heaping fresh tea leaves in a dark, humid chamber, where warmth and moisture awaken a complex microbial fermentation. Over several weeks, the tea slowly transforms under the careful watch of our tea master who relies on instinct and experience rather than instruments. When the leaves reach the perfect level of maturity, we halt fermentation using a custom-built micro-dryer, locking in their full-bodied character.
The result is a tea with a velvety, heavy body and a striking depth of flavor: dark chocolate richness, the damp allure of wet wood, and a toasted hazelnut finish. A grounding cup, perfect for mindful moments and post-meal rituals alike.
Pu-erh tea, especially the ripe (shou) variety, is known to contain probiotic microorganisms that develop during its unique fermentation process. While pu-erh isn’t a probiotic supplement per se, it does naturally harbor beneficial microbes and metabolites that can support gut health.
Here are some microbial strains that have been identified in laboratory studies of pu-erh tea:Lactobacillus, Bacillus, Enterococcus, Pediococcus
Processing Standards:
This tea was developed in conjunction with a Japanese tea company with the aim to craft a dark post
fermented tea with no contamination outside Asia. We managed to achieve this in Malawi with very strict adherence to hygiene and other processing conditions during its 4-week period of ‘cooking’. We use green teas and very lightly oxidized oolongs as a base. We hip them and put them in a dark room with a high moisture content. We stimulate fermentation and measure the temperature inside
the bale every few days. After a week we mix the hips and make sure we work with the right moisture levels. We repeat this for about 4 weeks. After that the tea gets hand sorted and dried in our sustainable micro drier. This tea is a great example of how modern science meets ancient art in
this unique tea.
Malawi Pu'erh (Green & Oolong)
Aroma: Forest Floor
Body: Haevy-bodied
Flavor Profile: Wet Wood, Dark Chocolate, Hazelnut