Xiaguan Classic 8663 and T-8663 | 2014 Cooked Pu Er

XiaGuan 8663 is one of the classic cooked (ripe) Pu Er recipes from this iconic producer.  Extremely easy to drink (and brew), this is a very reliable brew to start or finish your days.

Expect a tea with low fermentation funk and a stable, medium-full body; it ages gracefully without becoming overly heavy or musty. Along with Xiao Fa Tuo, it is one of XiaGuan’s most popular and enduring ripe blends.

T8663 is the iron-pressed (T = Tie, “iron”) version of the same recipe, introduced to satisfy demand for a denser, more durable form that ages slowly and consistently. Iron pressing has long been a XiaGuan specialty, producing extremely tight cakes that open gradually and maintain their flavor integrity over many years. 

Which one should you get?  Our suggestion:  

• Try them all!  Their price is quite affordable.
• Stock up on whichever you like the most, to age at home and share with friends in years to come.

2024 8653 is available in boxes of 7, if you choose this format.

References: 

This is an article from Xiaguan's Beijing flagship store about this iconic recipe.

This tea has fantastic aging potential!  Check out this post from the good folks at Yunnan Sourcing, with a 2001 T8653 exceeding $600!

About Xiaguan Tuo Cha

Founded in 1902, Xiaguan is a company with a rich history, including caravans from Yunnan to Tibet and a leading part in the development of 'cooked' Pu Er in the 1970s.