Midi Ancient Tea Mountain is located in Xinfuxiang of the Ailao Mountain tea-growing region, in the northwest of Mojiang County. The area is characterized by high mountains and dense forests, with excellent ecological preservation. Numerous wild tea mountains are scattered throughout the region. With an average elevation of approximately 1,890 meters, an annual mean temperature of 16°C, and a relative humidity of 80%, the region is enveloped in mist year-round. These conditions result in a long tea-growing season, a short harvest period, and low yield — but exceptional tea quality. In an old tea garden, there still stands a stone tablet inscribed with “Midi Tea Source,” underscoring the historical prestige of this land.
According to historical records, tea cultivation in the Xinfu River area of Mojiang began during the reign of Emperor Shenzong of the Ming Dynasty, over 400 years ago. The area now known as “Midi” was originally called “Midi (迷地)”. After Pu'erh tea was designated as a tribute tea during the Ching Dynasty, many high-quality teas within the jurisdiction of Pu'erh Prefecture were also selected as tribute teas. Legend has it that Emperor Yongzheng once tasted "Midi Tea" and greatly praised it, saying: “Of all the teas I’ve tasted, only this one excels in both color and flavor.” He referred to it as “Midi Qin Jun (迷帝沁君),” meaning “Midi’s Refreshment for the Emperor,” and from this praise, the name “Midi” (迷帝) — symbolizing the emperor being captivated — came into use and has been passed down ever since.
The ancient tree tea from Midi features thick and well-defined strips, with plump and robust buds covered in silvery hairs. The tea leaves have a glossy, oily sheen. Upon the first infusion, it releases a floral honey aroma, with a distinct sweetness that is quick to return and stimulate salivation. The fragrance is rich and fully infused into the tea liquor, which tastes gently sweet. As the infusions continue, the floral scent becomes more prominent, with hints of licorice sweetness. Astringency is minimal and dissipates quickly. The tea induces fast salivation and a returning sweetness, with floral and honey notes lingering in the mouth. The sides of the tongue remain moist, and the throat retains a smooth, sweet finish. The texture is delicate, smooth, and silky.
Midi’s pure-material ancient tree tea offers a crisp, clean, and refreshing taste. As it stands, its flavor is very approachable, offering a high level of enjoyment — fresh and vibrant, with a long-lasting aftertaste. The returning sweetness (hui gan) is one of the most delightful aspects of the tea-drinking experience, and perhaps it was this very sensation that once captivated the emperor. Today, when we encounter Midi’s ancient tree tea, we may find ourselves resonating with the refined taste of a Qing Dynasty monarch. That enduring charm — the very soul of Midi single-origin ancient tree raw Puerh tea — lies precisely in this experience.
