First quick tasting of the 2012 Quanjihao Manzhuan Gushu from Essence of Tea, in comparison to the 2014 there is a lot of similarity - especially in the way that they are both easy to drink, sweet and approachable.
The 2012 is a bit heavier, with a malty fermentation notes and more rustic perhaps, while the 2014 has this bright, sweet thirst quenching character, with a lighter weight.
The older one appears to have more aromatic depth and punch overall. In terms of complexity both are straightforward - I likened it to the ‘dynamic range’ of the drinking experience, or you could also say the ‘depth’ of this tea on is somewhere on a medium level.
Surprisingly I do like the 2012 better in the Gaiwan than the Zini Pot - the bright notes come out better, - its more lively and juicy than in a muting pot.