Pu Erh tea belongs to what the Chinese themselves call “Hei cha” – black or dark teas – but which is primarily known as Pu Erh tea. Pu Erh is the only tea in the world that is produced to be stored and many of them are packed into hard tea cakes according to ancient methods. In China, Pu Erh is seen as a very exclusive tea known for its medicinal properties and is often served in finer tea houses or sold as something precious in the tea shop. Because the tea cakes benefit from being stored, they are especially popular as gifts for newborn babies or newlyweds.

For many, Pu Erh is something you learn to like. In general, they are much more earthy, natural and raw compared to other black teas. For the beginner, they are often experienced as very robust, almost intrusive. If you draw parallels to wine, the closest you come is a heavy and tough Amarone.

Pu Erh has unique food pairing possibilities. Think of Pu Erh as a powerful, ripe red wine when pairing it with food. In general, pu erh pairs well with dishes that have a bit more intense and complex flavors. It can be delicious with hearty meat dishes - preferably smoked, fried or grilled. Mushrooms also pair well with pu erh, as its natural umami and earthiness complement the tea well.

Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content works well because its bitterness and rich flavor harmonize with the rich tones of the tea. Pu erh is also one of the few teas that can stand up to an aperitif like whiskey or other aged spirits. Fruit and light sweets can also be a brilliant complement to the dry, earthy tea.