Zhenghe, Fujian
山野桃荔 · Shānyě Táolì · Wild Mountain Peach & Lychee
480–520 metres. Forest, bamboo and open slope around the plot.
A little organic fertiliser; no pesticides.
Jin Mudan (金牡丹), propagated from cuttings. The bushes are about six years old.
One of three plots we follow with the same maker. On this plot the leaf is worked by hand through three rounds of roasting and airing, a traditional technique recognized as intangible cultural heritage rather than invented for effect. Fermentation still happens in hand-woven bamboo baskets, the way it always has here.
Picking runs from about 20 to 30 April: one bud with two or three leaves. The leaf is withered in sunlight and tossed (摇青) to bring out its aroma. A normal year gives about 130 kg.
In 2026 the leaf was picked more tender than in previous years.
Harvests
Every harvest is recorded here, whether or not it is selected. Tea is offered only when a harvest meets our standard. The place and the maker remain independent.
One place, observed over time.