2023 Phoenix Nest / Mojang Single-Origin Ancient Tree Raw Puerh Tea Cake

Phoenix Nest Ancient Tea Garden: A Hidden Treasure of Mojiang

Nestled in Jingxing Town, Mojiang County, the Phoenix Nest ancient tea garden enjoys a subtropical climate, with elevations ranging from 1,618 to 1,783 meters above sea level. The area is often shrouded in mist during mornings and evenings, maintaining high humidity year-round. With an average annual temperature of 18°C, rainfall reaching 1,300 mm, and relative humidity of 80–90%, the unique geographical and climatic conditions provide a natural foundation for the exceptional quality of Phoenix Nest ancient tree tea. Legend has it that the tea garden was once a dense primitive forest where peacocks frequently dwelled, giving rise to the name "Phoenix Nest."

Today, the ancient tea garden remains surrounded by lush forests and hosts 16 different types of tree species. The tea trees here belong predominantly to the Yunnan large-leaf varietal, characterized by their relatively uniform cultivar. The fresh tea leaves are adorned with fine white hairs, and the brewed leaves exhibit a clean, yellowish-white appearance.

Phoenix Nest ancient tree tea stands out for its distinctive qualities, shining uniquely among its peers. Made from hand-picked spring harvests of pure ancient tree material, the sun-withered maocha is processed using traditional Yunnan Pu'erh techniques and pressed into cakes with stone molds. The resulting tea cakes are compact, evenly textured, and visually appealing, adorned with visible white buds.

When brewed, the tea presents a pale yellow, luminous liquor that is smooth, rich, and sweet, with a lasting aftertaste. By the third cup, a gentle tea energy emerges, offering a comforting sensation. The fourth and fifth infusions remain soft, silky, and sweet, devoid of bitterness or astringency, with a pronounced lingering aroma in the cup. Even after five or six infusions, a delicate floral fragrance persists.

Phoenix Nest tea leaves sustain multiple infusions—often exceeding 15 brews—while maintaining their integrity. The light, bright liquor of this young tea distinguishes it from most other raw Pu'erh teas in the region. It also carries a unique flavor profile reminiscent of high-mountain oolong from Taiwan. While teas from the nearby Banshan area in Mojiang share certain similarities, Phoenix Nest excels with its more pronounced, sharp, and refined aroma. Such exceptional quality has made it highly sought-after among tea enthusiasts, attracting a growing number of admirers year after year.