Top 10 Villages of Puer Tea Plantation in Yunnan

Chinese Name: 普洱茶的十大名寨
English Name: Top 10 Villages of Puer Tea Plantation in Yunnan

The increasing popularity of ancient tree tea has revealed several underlying issues, including public concerns about tea safety and the challenges of protecting ancient tea tree resources. The high prices of ancient tree tea have led to over-exploitation, resulting in decreased production. This decline in yield, in turn, drives prices even higher, creating a “vicious cycle” for the protection of ancient tea trees.

As the damage to ancient tea trees intensifies, the ecological environment of tea gardens is also suffering, which urgently requires attention. While Pu-erh tea possesses investment and appreciation characteristics, many industry professionals remain worried about the protection of ancient tea trees and the potential resurgence of speculative bubbles in the market. There is a widespread hope for a shift towards a more rational consumption phase, focusing primarily on the enjoyment and appreciation of the tea rather than speculation.

Laobanzhang Puer Tea Plantation in Menghai County, XishuangBanna (老班章)

Since ancient times, the villagers of Lao Banzhang have adhered to traditional methods for the artificial cultivation and care of ancient tea trees. They follow local customs for hand-picking fresh leaves and utilize natural drying methods. Today, Lao Banzhang Pu-erh tea is one of the few tea-producing areas in Yunnan that does not use chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or any inorganic materials, making it a pure, natural, and pollution-free source of tea.

Lao Banzhang Pu-erh tea is known for its bold and robust character, rich aroma, and powerful flavor, earning it the titles of “King,” “Tea King,” and “Banzhang King” in the Pu-erh tea community. The status of Lao Banzhang in Yunnan’s Pu-erh tea industry is comparable to that of Da Hong Pao in Fujian’s oolong tea.

The tea’s unique qualities are defined by its pronounced “tea energy,” characterized by strong bitterness and astringency, with a long-lasting sweetness. The tea soup is bright in color, the leaves are soft and uniform, with a hint of honey fragrance. Its aroma is pure and rich, delivering a robust flavor that soothes the throat and promotes salivation.

Interestingly, the villagers of Lao Banzhang are perhaps among the laziest farmers in China. Logically, they should plant more tea trees during high price periods for economic benefit, yet they seem indifferent, prioritizing drinking and enjoying life over business. After selling tea, they often spend their earnings in a week, finding contentment in the present. This attitude has allowed many ancient tea trees to remain, rather than being replaced by younger varieties.

The local villagers maintain a strong sense of identity and protect their heritage, refusing to compromise with outsiders or business interests. They produce around 50 tons of tea annually, generating millions in revenue, which they find sufficient. Their commitment to authenticity and resistance to dishonesty is a belief worthy of respect.

Characteristics

Lao Banzhang tea is characterized by its powerful tea energy, with bitterness that melts instantly upon entry, leaving a lasting sweetness and a high, lingering aroma. Upon tasting, the intense fragrance permeates throughout. The robust bitterness is primarily felt on the tongue but quickly dissolves, leading to a smooth and gratifying aftertaste that showcases the tea’s unique personality.

Xigui Puer Tea Plantation in Lincang City (昔归)

Xigui, located in Bandong Township of Lincang, is a mountainous area where ancient tea gardens are primarily found on the mid-slopes, intermingled with forests. The ancient tea trees here are approximately 200 years old, with larger trees having a circumference of 60 to 110 centimeters. Xigui tea belongs to the Bandong large-leaf variety, and due to local customs, only spring and autumn teas are harvested each year, allowing the tea trees to be well-preserved and resulting in superior tea quality compared to other villages.

Xigui tea is beloved by Pu-erh tea enthusiasts for its unique aroma and is known for its ability to stimulate salivation continuously. It boasts a rich inner quality, with a sharp fragrance, strong tea energy, and a thick flavor profile. The tea delivers a robust aftertaste and lingering sweetness, complemented by a clear, rock candy-like sweetness.

Characteristics

  • Rich Inner Quality: Xigui tea is highly resilient to brewing, maintaining its flavor and aroma through multiple infusions.
  • High Concentration: The tea soup has a deep concentration, resulting in a heavy and profound taste.
  • Sharp Aroma: The fragrance is high and piercing, contributing to its distinctive character.
  • Strong Tea Energy: The tea has a vigorous energy yet offers a smooth mouthfeel.
  • Delicate Water Path: It features a refined and intricate water path, accompanied by strong aftertastes and salivation, with a lasting aroma in the mouth.

Bingdao Puer Tea Plantation in Shuangjiang County, Lincang (冰岛)

The Bingdao ancient tea garden is one of the origins of the Yunnan large-leaf tea variety, renowned as the “authentic Yunnan large-leaf type.” The cultivation of Bingdao tea primarily takes place in villages such as Bingdao, Gongnong, and Dazhongshan, located in the mid-lower region of the Daxueshan mountain range in Shuangjiang County, Lincang.

Bingdao tea features typical large-leaf tea trees with long, dark green leaves that are thick, soft, and possess a rich aroma, making it a top-tier variety of Mengku tea and one of the finest in Yunnan Pu-erh tea. It is definitely a premium choice for high-end collectors.

Characteristics

  • Rich Aroma and Flavor: Bingdao ancient tea combines the fragrant, high-flavor profile typical of East Mountain teas with the rich, thick sweetness characteristic of West Mountain teas.
  • Strong Tea Energy: The tea has a robust energy, with a long-lasting aftertaste.
  • Low Astringency: The bitterness and astringency upon entry are almost imperceptible, yet the fragrance is powerful, slowly extending from the root of the tongue forward.
  • Sweet, Cooling Finish: The sweet tea soup fills the palate, spreading from the roof of the mouth to the entire nasal cavity, providing a cooling sensation as it passes through the throat.
  • Salivation: The tea’s strength is primarily felt in the middle to back of the tongue, continuously stimulating salivation in the cheeks.

Naka Puer Tea Plantation in Menghai County, XishuangBanna (那卡)

Naka ancient tea is one of the most representative teas of the Mengsong tea region, located in the La Hu village of Damanlu, Mengsong Township, Menghai County. Situated on the eastern side of Huazhu Liangzi Mountain, Naka is renowned for producing high-quality ancient tree tea. The village has over 600 acres of contiguous ancient tea gardens, with tea trees aged between 300 and 500 years.

Naka tea falls within the broader Menghai Mengsong tea region, where the large-leaf old tree teas are known for their thick stems, with Naka being particularly famous. Unlike “Bulang Mountain” tea, which is known for its bitterness, or “Pasha tea,” which is noted for its astringency, Naka tea boasts a higher aroma than Bingdao tea while maintaining a similar flavor profile, though its tea base lacks the delicate tenderness found in Bingdao. Naka tea is durable and can withstand multiple infusions, delivering a strong and obvious sweet aftertaste.

Characteristics

  • Wild Mountain Flavor: Naka tea exhibits a strong wild mountain character with a good lingering aroma at the bottom of the cup.
  • Bitterness and Sweetness: It has a pronounced bitterness that is balanced by a sweet aftertaste, which is quick and prominent.
  • Full-bodied Soup: The tea soup is rich and full, with a pure tea aroma that enhances the overall experience.
  • Notable Bamboo Tube Tea: Naka’s bamboo tube tea is also famous, historically known during the Qing Dynasty and was once offered as tribute to the “Cheli Xuanwei Fu.”

Guafengzhai PuerTea Plantation of Yiwu Mountain, XishuangBanna (刮风寨)
Guafengzhai ancient tree tea embodies the essential qualities of high-standard Pu’er tea, with its unique “qi,” aroma, flavor, and aftertaste. Some tea enthusiasts refer to a strong “tea qi” as a reference to bitterness, but this perspective is limited and not entirely accurate. Instead, “qi” should be understood as a sensation experienced throughout the body after drinking the tea, which may create a slight warming feeling—not universally applicable to all tea drinkers.

Characteristics of Guafengzhai Ancient Tree Tea

  • Inner Qi: The true charm of Guafengzhai tea lies in its “inner qi,” which is sensed through the body rather than merely appreciated through the mouth and nose. Practitioners of qigong, traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, and those who avoid meat tend to be more sensitive to this experience. When consumed, the tea connects with the lungs and spleen meridians, leading to a warm sensation in the dantian and possibly even light sweating, akin to the feeling of cultivating energy in qigong.
  • Flavor Profile:
    • Sweetness and Honey Aroma: The tea presents a natural, rich honey fragrance combined with a sweet and mellow taste.
    • Smooth and Rich: The texture is smooth and delicate, concealing a strong yet reserved tea qi.
    • Bitterness and Subtlety: The bitterness is profound but subtle, with a lingering throat sensation that extends gracefully.
  • Flavor Evolution: The tea’s beauty is particularly evident in its later transformations. Initially, the sweetness prevails, followed by a deep throat sensation and rich aroma. As the tea ages, the soup becomes thicker, the flavors more full-bodied, while the bitterness and astringency gradually fade, allowing the mellow aged aroma to emerge.

Guafengzhai ancient tree tea offers a complex experience that goes beyond flavor, engaging the drinker’s entire being, making it a captivating choice for those seeking a profound connection with their tea.

Wangong Puer Tea Plantation in Mengla County, XishuangBanna(弯弓)

Wangong, a tea variety that has only recently gained recognition, has managed to preserve its ancient charm due to years of obscurity, escaping the frenzy of overharvesting. Located in the core area of the ancient Mansa tea region, Wangong Dazhai was once a thriving village before the Qing Dynasty’s Xianfeng period, with a population exceeding ten thousand. It, along with Mansa Old Street, was among the most prosperous settlements on the Yiwu tea mountain. The remnants of the Guandi Temple in Wangong Dazhai bear witness to its former glory. However, as time passed, the village gradually declined and faded from the eyes of tea enthusiasts.

Characteristics of Wangong Tea

  • Appearance: The tea has a brilliant golden hue, exuding a soft and inviting visual appeal.
  • Flavor Profile:
    • Rich and Thick: The tea is known for its sticky and full-bodied taste, offering a unique experience with each sip.
    • Aromatic Notes: It carries a charming fragrance reminiscent of primordial forests, adding to its allure.
    • Lingering Sweetness: The aftertaste is remarkable, with a strong, lasting sweetness and a pleasing sensation that continues to evolve.
  • Texture and Stability: Wangong tea exhibits a strong continuity and stability in its flavor profile, ensuring that each cup remains consistent and satisfying over time.

Wangong tea, with its historical significance and exquisite qualities, represents a rediscovered gem in the world of Pu’er tea, offering both a sensory delight and a connection to the region’s rich tea heritage.

Mahei Puer Tea of Yiwu Mountain in Mengla County, XishuangBanna (麻黑)

Mahei is one of the renowned tea mountains in Yiwu and is celebrated for producing some of the most flavorful Pu’er teas. Its contribution to the fame of Pu’er tea cannot be overstated, particularly in the realm of raw teas. However, the current confusion surrounding Mahei tea has led to some negative impacts on the market, emphasizing the need for purity, which directly affects its value for long-term storage.

Characteristics of Mahei Tea

  • Flavor Profile:
    • Rich and Full-Bodied: Mahei tea offers a robust and rich flavor, characterized by its fullness and depth.
    • Aromatic Notes: While it may not possess the high, vibrant fragrance of Guafengzhai tea, Mahei is known for its subtle and smooth aroma, often with floral and fruity undertones.
  • Appearance: The tea has a bright yellow color, indicative of its quality and appealing to the eye.
  • Texture and Complexity: Mahei tea is noted for its soft and delicate mouthfeel, combined with a strong underlying flavor. It features a broad, well-rounded taste that is both rich and silky, showcasing a complex flavor profile.
  • Aging Potential: A notable aspect of Yiwu tea, including Mahei, is its ability to develop over time. It is commonly believed that “the longer it is stored, the stronger the tea flavor becomes,” reflecting its aging potential and the importance of careful storage.
  • Overall Impression: Mahei tea is often regarded as the “second” in the hierarchy of Yiwu teas, known for its soft beauty and balanced characteristics. It embodies the essence of fine tea, with a smooth, delicate flavor and a deep complexity that tea enthusiasts cherish. The tea leaves are thick and resilient, contributing to its overall quality and richness.

In summary, Mahei tea stands out in the landscape of Yiwu teas for its unique qualities and potential for aging, making it a prized choice among tea lovers.

Kunlu Mountain Tea Plantation in Ninger County, Puer (困鹿山)

Kunlushan Mountain, a branch of the Wuliang Mountain range, is located within Kuanghong Village, Fengyang Township, Pu’er County. Situated 31 kilometers north of Pu’er County’s town center, Kunlushan Mountain has an elevation ranging from 1,410 to 2,271 meters. The central area of the mountain extends several kilometers north to south and a few kilometers east to west. The landscape is characterized by lush, green peaks and towering ancient trees, with the highest peak reaching 2,271 meters above sea level. The ancient tea tree groves on Kunlushan Mountain span across Fengyang and Babian Townships, covering a total area of 10,122 mu (approximately 674.8 hectares). Within the boundaries of Kuanghong Village in Fengyang Township, Kunlushan Mountain contains 1,939 mu (about 129.3 hectares) of these tea groves. These groves are composed of semi-cultivated tea trees intermingled with broadleaf forest, forming a unique original forest ecosystem.

Characteristics of Kunlushan Mountain Tea:

  • Aroma: The tea has a rich and stable fragrance, which is both intense and enduring.
  • Taste Profile:
    • Bitterness and Astringency: The initial bitterness and astringency quickly dissolve, giving way to a smooth and sweet aftertaste.
    • Sweetness and Thickness: The flavor is sweet, thick, and refreshingly smooth, with the tea soup being rich in internal substances.
    • Stability: The tea’s character is stable, with a strong and lasting aftertaste that offers depth and persistence.
  • Mouthfeel: The tea induces a noticeable salivation effect in the throat, contributing to its overall depth and lingering charm.

Kunlushan Mountain tea is highly valued for its balanced combination of rich aroma, smooth taste, and enduring aftertaste, making it a distinguished representative of Pu’er teas. The unique natural environment of the mountain contributes to its distinctive flavor and robust aftertaste, qualities that are especially appreciated by tea connoisseurs.

Mansong Tea Plantation in Mengla County, XishuangBanna (曼松贡茶)

The authentic “Mansong Tribute Tea” is considered a treasure among Pu’er teas, with extremely limited production and only a few genuine Mansong ancient tea trees remaining. Originally from the First Village of Yibang District, this historic tea area became famous for its high-quality tea leaves. The Xiangtang ethnic group in Mansong Old Village were known for their exceptional tea cultivation skills. It was their Mansong tea that, due to its superior quality, was selected as tribute tea, with a yearly tribute of “100 dan of tea.” This brought great honor to the Yibang District and boosted local tea production and sales. However, the annual production of Mansong Tribute Tea is said to be only around 10 kilograms, making it a top-tier, premium product in the world of Pu’er tea. If you are fortunate enough to purchase an authentic Mansong Tribute Tea at a high price, consider yourself very lucky—it’s a rare and precious find.

Characteristics of Mansong Tribute Tea:

  • Sweetness: The tea is sweet from the first sip, with the sweetness lingering in both the mouth and throat, offering a prolonged and rich taste experience.
  • Strong and Warming Tea Energy: Mansong Tribute Tea is known for its powerful and warming tea energy. Just a small amount can cause a gentle warmth to spread throughout the body, a characteristic that sets it apart from teas from other regions.
  • Rare and Precious: Due to its limited production and exceptional quality, Mansong Tribute Tea is highly esteemed in the Pu’er tea community and is considered a top-tier premium tea.

Mansong Tribute Tea is prized for its unique sweetness and rich tea energy. Tasting an authentic Mansong Tribute Tea is undoubtedly a rare and valuable experience.

LaomanE Puer Tea Plantation in Menghai County, XishuangBanna(老曼峨古茶树)

Laoman’e Village is known as the largest and oldest Blang ethnic village in the entire Bulang Mountain area. The tea from Laoman’e is famously bitter, so much so that the locals refer to the tea from Laoman’e, and by extension, the entire Bulang Mountain tea region, as “bitter tea.” There are also some “sweet teas” that are grown in this area, which are said to lack the bitterness and are usually kept by the villagers for their own consumption.

Due to its intense bitterness, Laoman’e’s bitter tea often serves as a “flavor enhancer” in the processing of Pu’er tea. Many tea factories and tea merchants blend Laoman’e tea with other teas to improve and enrich the taste and flavor profile of their Pu’er tea cakes.

Characteristics of Laoman’e Bitter Tea:

  • Appearance: The tea leaves are thick, robust, and tightly twisted, with visible fine hairs.
  • Tea Liquor: The tea produces a clear, bright soup with a rich, intense flavor.
  • Taste Profile: It is notably bitter upon the first sip, but this bitterness quickly dissipates, leaving a strong, lingering sweetness. The tea has a unique, enduring, and refreshing taste that stands out.
  • Durability: The tea is highly resistant to multiple infusions, with a lasting fragrance and taste even after prolonged brewing.

Laoman’e’s ancient tea trees are highly sought after, leading to a rapid increase in the price of its tea. The rarity of these ancient trees has created a significant price gap, making Laoman’e one of the most renowned and prestigious tea villages, with a reputation that extends far and wide.