Uncovering The Mystery Behind 357g Pu'er Tea Cakes

Pu-erh tea is a type of post-fermented tea that originated in Yunnan, China. It is known for its rich, earthy flavor and complex aroma. Pu-erh tea is traditionally compressed into cakes, which makes it easier to transport and store.

The weight of a Pu-erh tea cake is not random. There are several reasons why it is 375g. It is a story of tradition and practicality:

Historically, Pu-erh tea cakes earned the nickname "Seven-son Cakes" because they often came in packs of seven. In Chinese culture, the number seven is lucky, symbolizing completeness and good fortune. Each cake weighs around 357 grams, and seven of these cakes add up to roughly 2.5 kilograms, which is convenient for both tea merchants and enthusiasts.

In the past, tea was often transported and stored in barrels and baskets. These containers held specific amounts for easy record-keeping and trade. Interestingly, 12 barrels, each holding 7 cakes, fit perfectly into a basket, bringing the total weight close to 30 kilograms – another nice round number!

Thus, the 357-gram weight wasn't just about luck. It made perfect sense for storage, transportation, and even brewing a single cup of tea!

This clever system became a defining characteristic of Pu-erh tea. Even today, many producers stick to the 357-gram tradition. Standardizing the weight streamlined the Pu-erh tea industry, making it easier for everyone involved, from growers to tea lovers like you!

00:00 Why 357 grams?
00:33 Story of 'seven-son cakes'
01:55 Characterization and standardization