The 2017 Mengku Mother Tree Raw Pu’er Tea (勐库母树生茶) is a prestigious raw (生茶) Pu’er tea produced by the Yunnan Pu'er Tea Factory (云南普洱茶厂), one of the legendary "Four Major Tea Factories" in Yunnan. This tea originates from the Mengku Mother Tree, the ancestor of Mengku large-leaf tea, regarded as the "mother" of all iconic large-leaf teas in the Mengku tea region (勐库茶区), such as the renowned Iceland Old Village Tea (冰岛老寨茶) and the other four famous villages.

Grown in the pristine high-altitude environment of the Mengku tea region, this tea reflects the unique terroir of the area, combining nutrient-rich soil, ideal climate, and centuries-old tea traditions. The 2017 vintage showcases the bold, complex, and harmonious character of Mengku’s finest teas while preserving the cultural and historical significance of its origins.

Background and Significance

• Mengku Mother Tree (勐库母树):
  • The Mengku Mother Tree is the origin and ancestor of the Mengku large-leaf tea varietal.
  • Known as the "mother" of legendary teas, it is the foundation for all iconic teas of the region, including Iceland Old Village Tea and other Mengku classics.
  • The tree represents the heritage and legacy of Mengku tea and its role in shaping the region’s tea culture.
• Mengku Tea Region (勐库茶区):
  • Located in Lincang City, Yunnan Province, the Mengku tea region is renowned for its high-altitude ancient tea gardens.
  • Elevation: The tea gardens are situated at altitudes ranging between 1,600–2,000 meters (5,250–6,560 feet) above sea level.
  • Terroir: The region’s fertile soil, mist-covered mountains, and moderate climate create ideal growing conditions for large-leaf tea, resulting in teas with a bold, floral fragrance, complex flavors, and a smooth finish.
• Produced by Yunnan Pu'er Tea Factory (云南普洱茶厂):
  • As one of the "Four Major Tea Factories," the Yunnan Pu’er Tea Factory has been a pioneer in crafting authentic Pu’er teas, adhering to traditional techniques.
  • The factory is renowned for its high standards of quality and its contribution to preserving the legacy of Yunnan Pu’er tea.
• 2017 Vintage:
  • Produced in 2017, this tea captures the essence of Mengku’s ancient tea traditions while offering excellent aging potential, making it a prized tea for connoisseurs and collectors.

Key Features

• Mother Tree Heritage:
  • Represents the ancestral source of Mengku large-leaf tea, the foundation for iconic teas like Iceland Old Village and other Mengku classics.
• High-Altitude Terroir:
  • Grown at 1,600–2,000 meters in the Mengku tea region, where nutrient-rich soil and misty highland conditions enhance the tea’s unique flavor and aroma.
• Authentic Mengku Origin:
  • Sourced from the Mengku tea area, known for producing teas with a balance of sweetness, bitterness, and floral notes.
• Yunnan Pu'er Tea Factory Production:
  • Crafted by one of Yunnan's most prestigious tea factories, ensuring quality and authenticity through traditional techniques.
• Bold and Complex Flavor:
  • Known for its strength and layered complexity, reflecting the Mengku Mother Tree’s legacy.

Aroma and Flavor Profile

• Aroma:
  • A vibrant and elegant aroma with notes of wildflowers, fresh grass, and a subtle hint of honey.
• Flavor:
  • Bold and Harmonious: A robust taste with a well-balanced blend of bitterness and sweetness.
  • Complex Layers: Floral and fruity undertones complemented by a mineral-rich earthiness unique to high-altitude Mengku teas.
• Mouthfeel:
  • Smooth and refreshing, with a crisp, energizing texture.
• Aftertaste:
  • Long-lasting, sweet, and slightly cooling, leaving a clean and elegant finish.

Why It Stands Out

• Ancestral Legacy:
  • A tea that embodies the rich history and heritage of Mengku’s large-leaf varietal, connecting today’s tea drinkers to centuries-old traditions.
• High-Altitude Excellence:
  • Grown in pristine tea gardens at elevations of 1,600–2,000 meters, the tea reflects the unique terroir of the Mengku region.
• Renowned Producer:
  • Produced by the Yunnan Pu'er Tea Factory, a trusted name in Pu’er tea, known for its dedication to quality and tradition.
• Terroir-Driven Complexity:
  • The unique combination of soil, climate, and elevation gives this tea its distinctive floral aroma, bold flavor, and smooth finish.
• Cultural and Collectible Value:
  • A tea that celebrates the legacy of Mengku while offering excellent aging potential, making it a valuable addition for collectors and enthusiasts.