2006 Mao Er Duo “Cat Ear” Raw Pu-erh Tea | #103

Rare Yi Bang Small Leaf Sheng Pu-erh

This 2006 Mao Er Duo Raw Pu-erh Tea, often called “Cat Ear” Pu-erh, is a rare and fascinating variety within the world of pu-erh tea. The name comes from the distinctive shape of the tea leaves, which are small, rounded, and resemble the ears of a cat.

The tea originates from the historic Yi Bang tea region in Yunnan, an area known for producing elegant and highly aromatic pu-erh teas. Unlike most pu-erh tea which uses large-leaf tea varieties, Mao Er Duo comes from a naturally mutated small-leaf tea cultivar, making it exceptionally rare.

The mature leaves are short, rounded, and slightly oval, with plump buds that give the tea its distinctive appearance. Because the tea plants sprout later and produce fewer buds, the annual yield is extremely limited. In traditional tea circles, this rarity has earned the tea the affectionate nickname “Little Jade Beauty”, highlighting both its elegance and scarcity.

Harvested from century-old ancient tea trees, the tea material contains only a small percentage of buds, further emphasizing its rarity and collectible value.

When brewed, the tea produces a smooth and silky tea liquor with remarkable softness. The aroma reveals high floral orchid notes combined with gentle honey sweetness, creating a refined and elegant fragrance.

The flavor is delicate yet layered, offering a soft and creamy mouthfeel that flows smoothly across the palate. The tea enters the mouth effortlessly and reveals a refined texture that many tea drinkers describe as an “elegant and luxurious” sensation.

A long-lasting throat sweetness and lingering aftertaste develops gradually, leaving a pleasant and memorable finish after each infusion.

This tea is a beautiful example of rare small-leaf pu-erh tea craftsmanship, combining uniqueness, elegance, and the refined character of ancient tea trees.

Tea Details

Tea Type
Raw Pu-erh Tea (Sheng Pu-erh)

Origin
Yi Bang tea region, Yunnan

Year
2006

Tea Material
Ancient tree small-leaf tea variety (Cat Ear mutation)

Tea Form
Loose or compressed raw pu-erh tea

Special Characteristic
Rare “Cat Ear” small-leaf pu-erh cultivar

Flavor Profile

• Elegant orchid floral aroma

• Honey-like sweetness

• Smooth and silky mouthfeel

• Soft and refined tea texture

• Long-lasting throat sweetness

• Persistent aromatic finish

This tea delivers a rare and elegant pu-erh experience with delicate complexity and refined character.

Brewing Guide

Tea Amount
5–6 grams

Water Temperature
95–100°C (203–212°F)

Brewing Method

1. Place tea leaves into a gaiwan or teapot

2. Rinse briefly with hot water

3. Steep for 10–15 seconds for the first infusion

4. Gradually increase steeping time for later infusions

High-quality raw pu-erh tea can produce 10–15 infusions.

Why You'll Love This Tea

• Rare “Cat Ear” pu-erh tea variety

• Made from ancient Yi Bang tea trees

• Elegant floral and honey aroma

• Smooth and silky mouthfeel

• Extremely limited natural production

A remarkable pu-erh tea prized for its rarity, elegance, and unique leaf character.