2011 Dayi (Menghai Tea Factory) ‘7542’ Raw Pu erh Tea Cake (Guangdong Storage)

Description Guangdong Dry Storage | Aged Since 2011 | Classic 7542 Recipe The 7542 raw Pu Erh tea cake is arguably the most legendary, collected, and counterfeited recipe produced by Dayi (Menghai Tea Factory). Highly sought after by collectors and serious Pu Erh investors, the 7542 recipe is widely regarded as one of the most reliable Sheng Pu Erh cakes for long-term aging. This cake has been resting in traditional Guangdong dry storage since 2011 and was sourced through an official Dayi dealer in Guangdong, ensuring authenticity and proper provenance. Aging Profile (2011–2026 Guangdong Storage) Guangdong’s warm, controlled dry storage has: Turned the leaves a rich, dull brown Advanced the aging process significantly Softened the sharper edges of youth Enhanced depth, sweetness, and texture The liquor pours a clear amber-orange. Initial bitterness remains present but is noticeably muted, giving way to deep sweetness and structure. With later infusions, expect increasing fruity and nectar-like aromas, alongside a lingering fruity aftertaste. An emerging, energetic Cha Qi (tea energy) is beginning to show. The mouthfeel is now markedly smoother compared to its earlier years. Texture, sweetness, and qi will continue to build with further aging. Understanding the 7542 Code Before privatisation, Menghai Tea Factory (now known under the Dayi/TaeTea brand) operated within the state-run CNNP tea factory system. Recipes were identified by numeric codes rather than names. The 7542 code reveals key details: 75 – The year the recipe was first developed (1975) 4 – Average leaf grade (Pu Erh grades range 1–9; 1 = fine buds, 9 = larger coarse leaves) 2 – Factory designation for Menghai The 7542 recipe remains one of the benchmark blends in the raw Pu Erh world and is often used as a reference standard for aging potential. Due to its popularity and high counterfeit rate, it is strongly advised to purchase Menghai/Dayi tea only from reputable and trusted vendors.