Yiwu Gafengzhai is located in Majie Village, northwest of Mengla County, Xishuangbanna. It is a village inhabited by the Yao people. Named “Gafengzhai” (Wind-swept Village), it stands at a wind-exposed spot surrounded by mountains, with a stream flowing in front and winds passing through the village. This village has the highest elevation among the Seven Villages of Yiwu and produces the least amount of Tea, yet it boasts the most intact ancient tea trees.
The teas from Gafengzhai can be categorized into several areas. The ancient Tree tea commonly referred to as Gafengzhai is from the non-state-owned forest. The state-owned forest area includes the King Tree, Tea Field, Cold Water River, and White Sand River. The prices of these teas vary according to factors such as the age of the trees and the location. Its fresh tea has a rich floral aroma, which later transforms into fruity, honey, and woody scents. The taste evolves from sweet to robust, with a pronounced wild character. When sipped carefully, the tea reveals a smooth and lingering texture.
Gafengzhai belongs to Yiwu Town, Mengla County, and sits at an altitude of around 1,200 meters, bordering Laos near boundary marker No. 14. It takes about 45 minutes on foot to reach the boundary marker, a distance of approximately 3-4 kilometers.
The ancient tea trees of Gafengzhai are scattered across about 50 square kilometers of virgin forest, most of which have not been pruned and grow within the state-owned forest. Gafengzhai is renowned for being the “Pillar of Yiwu,” the “King of Yiwu Tea,” and the “Yiwu's Ban Zhang.”
The excellent natural conditions and ecological environment create the perfect setting for the growth of the tea trees in Gafengzhai. These trees are all hundreds of years old, some reaching as high as a three-story building.
In the virgin forest, the tea trees are shaded by other trees and receive less direct sunlight, which results in slow growth under diffuse sunlight. The dispersed growth of the trees, along with these environmental factors, contributes to the exceptional quality of the tea leaves.
The tea has a substantial mouthfeel and a strong wild character, with very low bitterness and astringency. The return of sweetness is swift, and the soft yet potent aftertaste perfectly embodies the saying that “Yiwu is the Empress.”
Characteristics of the Ancient Tea Trees in Gafengzhai
The ancient tea trees in Gafengzhai excel in terms of their Qi, aroma, flavor, and character, essentially representing the high standards of fine Pu'er tea. The loose leaf tea from Gafengzhai has a dark green luster. Sipping it reveals a sweet and rich natural honey aroma, a smooth and delicate texture, and a restrained yet potent qi. The bitterness and astringency are also quite subtle.
The aftertaste is long-lasting and soothing, evoking a sense of stability, fulfillment, and comfort. Novices appreciate the return of sweetness, while connoisseurs savor the mountain character.
The mystery of Gafengzhai lies in its ability to immediately convey the ruggedness and mystique of the primary forest, along with a lingering smoothness. It is intriguing and unforgettable, leaving a lasting impression both in the mouth and in the heart.