2021 Lao Man Er Single-Origin Ancient Tree Raw Puerh Tea Ball

Lao Man Er: The Ancient Brown Village and Its Timeless Tea

Nestled in the Bulang Mountain Township of Menghai County, Xishuangbanna, Lao Man Er is a small natural village under the administrative purview of Ban Zhang Village Committee. It stands as the oldest Brown ethnic village in the entire Bulang Mountain region, with a history of approximately 1,700 years. The journey from Bulang Mountain Township to Lao Man Er spans about six kilometers, followed by another ten kilometers to Xin Ban Zhang, and a further ten kilometers leads to Lao Ban Zhang. The village itself sits at an altitude of around 1,300 meters, while its ancient tea tree groves are distributed between 1,200 and 1,600 meters.

Despite its long history, documented records on the cultivation of ancient tea trees in Lao Man Er are scarce. It is roughly estimated that the ancient tea trees here are between 300 and 500 years old. A local legend persists: the ancient tea trees of Lao Ban Zhang were a gift from the Brown people of Lao Man Er to the Hani people.

Characteristics of Ancient Tree Tea

Lao Man Er single-origin ancient tree tea is broadly categorized into two types: “bitter tea”, known for its pronounced bitterness, and “sweet tea”, which offers a milder, gentler profile. The leaves of Lao Man Er tea are generally broader and larger, contributing to their intense flavor. To balance this intensity, finer, more tender buds and leaves are sometimes selected. This approach captures the tea's aromatic complexity while delivering a harmonious and well-rounded taste. The 2021 Lao Man Er Single-Origin Ancient Tree Raw Pu'erh is crafted exclusively from the milder "sweet tea" leaves.

How to Appreciate

Lao Man Er tea possesses a distinctive and profound tea essence. When tasting, pay close attention to the evolving sensations from the palate to the throat. The enduring sweetness and aroma that linger after swallowing epitomize the captivating charm of Yunnan's ancient tree teas.

Brewing Method

Use a 150cc teapot or cover bowl with water heated to 95–100°C. 

- First infusion: 25–30 seconds (to allow the tea balls to begin unfurling). 

- Second and third infusions: 25–30 seconds. 

- From the fourth infusion onward: Increase steeping time by 5–10 seconds per brew. 

Lao Man Er ancient tree tea can withstand at least twelve or more infusions, revealing its depth and durability with each steep.