Puer Tea can be divided into two types: Sheng (raw) and Shou (ripe). Since they share the same base characteristics, many tea enthusiasts often wonder: which one is better, Sheng or Shou? Let's discuss this question of superiority today.

There are significant differences between Sheng and Shou in terms of production process, character, taste, mouthfeel, and aroma. Once you understand these distinctions, you'll realize that the focus shouldn't be on which one is better, but rather on how to choose the right one for you.

Puer Tea: Sheng vs. Shou – Which is Better?

Different Production Processes

The general production process for both Sheng and Shou Puer teas from sun-dried Green Tea is as follows: pick fresh leaves → wither → pan-fry → knead → dry. After sun-drying, Sheng tea is directly compressed into shape, while Shou tea undergoes a process called pile fermentation, followed by another drying step before being steamed and pressed into shape.

From this discussion, we can see that the key difference between Sheng and Shou lies in the pile fermentation process, which accelerates the aging of Puer tea.

Optimal Time for Drinking

We all know that new Sheng tea can be quite astringent and isn't recommended for those with sensitive stomachs due to its strong stimulating properties. Sheng tea undergoes fascinating changes after storage. In contrast, Shou tea is milder when it is new.

Different Drinking Experiences

Sheng tea has a crisp taste, while Shou tea is generally more mellow and full-bodied. Of course, the production process and the years of transformation affect the aroma differently.

Different Characters

Sheng tea is good for weight loss and lowering blood pressure, but overall, Shou tea has a milder character.

Sales Price on the Market

In fact, Shou tea closely resembles aged Sheng tea. To enjoy a similar drinking experience and value, aged Sheng tea can be quite expensive. In comparison, Shou tea is more affordable.

Conclusion

As is well-known, the main difference between Sheng and Shou Puer teas is that the latter undergoes artificial pile fermentation. With artificial pile fermentation, Shou Puer tea matures much faster, almost as if it were given growth hormones.

From a drinking perspective, Sheng Puer tea offers a richer and more complex flavor profile, with a lasting aftertaste and a pleasant mouthfeel, leaving many tea enthusiasts wanting more. On the other hand, Shou Puer tea has a smoother and slightly more uniform taste.

From a health perspective, Shou Puer tea is more widely suitable for different people compared to Sheng. Sheng Puer tea is better suited for those with robust digestive systems. If your digestive system is weaker, you should approach it with caution. Shou Puer tea, however, has stomach-nourishing and protective benefits and can be enjoyed by anyone regardless of their digestive health. It could be considered a remedy for those with weaker stomachs.

From a collection perspective, Sheng Puer tea reaches its peak after several years, decades, or even longer. Well-stored high-quality aged Puer teas can increase in value many times over. Shou Puer tea reaches its peak after a few years and may decline afterward. Even with excellent storage, its value is unlikely to multiply significantly. However, if you're simply drinking it without considering its preservation or appreciation value, choosing the one that suits you best is ideal. Everyone has different reasons for enjoying Puer tea. Whether it's Sheng or Shou, as long as it satisfies your preferences and needs, it's a good tea. Both have their strengths, and there's no need to decide which is superior.