Mini Tuo Cha - Yunnan Pu Erh Tea Nests

Discover the secret of Mini Tuo Cha, this rare tea from the fertile terroirs of Yunnan in China, compressed into small bird's nest shapes for easy and convenient daily brewing. Its traditional fermentation (shu) gives it powerful aromas of forest floor, mushroom and nuts, perfect for gently awakening the palate of connoisseurs. Very low in theine, this organic Pu Erh entices with its slightly sweet flavors, subtly evoking caramel and ripe fruits.

50g zip bag
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1kg Loose Leaf Bag -10%

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Preparation Instructions

Steeping time
1-2 min

Brewing temperature
100°C

Time of day
Day & Evening

Dosage
12-15g / L

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Mini Tuo Cha: definition, origin and characteristics of this compressed tea

Mini Tuo Cha is a fermented tea compressed into a small bird's nest shape, from Chinese tradition. Originating from the Yunnan province in southern China, this Chinese tea is appealing for its compact form, similar to a bird's nest, and its ease of steeping. It belongs to the family of dark teas, sometimes classified between black tea and fermented pu erh tea, depending on its degree of processing, although there are also versions closer to green tea.

History and artisanal production of Mini Tuo Cha in China

The making of Mini Tuo Cha dates back to the Tang dynasty, when merchants traveled the Tea Route. In the humid mountains of Yunnan, fermented pu erh tea leaves were compressed into nest shapes to facilitate their transport. Today, this typical Chinese tea expertise is still passed down from generation to generation in tea villages.

The different types of Mini Tuo Cha

There are two main types of Mini Tuo Cha: raw (Sheng Cha) and cooked (Shu Cha).

Raw Mini Tuo Cha (Sheng): more vegetal, bright, it improves with age.
Cooked Mini Tuo Cha (Shu): smooth, woody and earthy, perfect for immediate tasting.

How to choose your Mini Tuo Cha: quality, terroir and vintage

The quality of Mini Tuo Cha depends on several essential criteria: tea plant variety, leaves used, vintage and terroir.

Origin and terroir: the importance of Yunnan

Yunnan is considered the birthplace of Pu Erh tea. Its humid climate and high-altitude forests provide an ideal environment for producing organic tea of high quality. A Mini Tuo Cha from this region guarantees an excellent product with an authentic aroma.

Mini Tuo Cha preparation: step-by-step steeping and tasting

Preparing a Mini Tuo Cha is simple and offers a refined tasting experience. Follow our advice to reveal all the flavors in each steeping, whether using a cup or a teapot.

Steeping tips

Water temperature: 95°C for Shu, 85°C for Sheng.
Dosage: 1 mini tuo per cup (about 5g).
Steeping time: 2 minutes for the first infusion, then gradually increase.

A Mini Tuo Cha can be steeped up to 5 to 7 times without losing intensity, especially when prepared in a suitable teapot.

When to drink a Mini Tuo Cha?

Mini Tuo Cha is ideal after a meal, particularly for its digestive properties. It also perfectly accompanies a workday at the office, thanks to its low theine content which stimulates without exciting.

What are the benefits of Mini Tuo Cha?

Mini Tuo Cha, a dark tea with detoxifying properties, offers many health benefits:

Natural detoxifier: supports the digestive system and helps reduce bloating.
Powerful antioxidant: rich in polyphenols.
Promotes gentle energy: low in theine, perfect for all day long.

A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry revealed that fermented Pu Erh tea can inhibit oxidative stress-mediated intestinal inflammatory pathway, thus helping to strengthen the intestinal immune barrier.

Mini Tuo Cha: A practical everyday tea

Small, light and compressed, Mini Tuo Cha is perfect for travel or quick use at the office. No need to weigh your tea: each little nest corresponds to an ideal dose.

Frequently asked questions about Mini Tuo Cha

How to store Mini Tuo Cha? In a dry place away from odors.
What is the weight of a Mini Tuo Cha? About 5g per piece.
How long can it be stored? Many years, and it improves with age.
Is it suitable for iced tea? Yes, after hot steeping and gentle cooling.