Question: Why is Ancient Tree Tea so expensive?
Answer: Because it's ancient! Because it's任性!
In recent years, Ancient Tree Tea has gained immense popularity among tea enthusiasts due to its rarity, superior quality, and unique flavor profile. This phenomenon has sparked debates: Is it driven by trend-following, or does Ancient Tree Tea truly possess unique charm? Let’s delve deeper.
To determine whether pure Ancient Tree Pu-erh Tea is worth its high price, the author studied works by experts such as Teacher Zhan Yingpei's "The Six Ancient Tea Mountains," Teacher Lin Shixing's "Yunnan Mountain Tea," and Teacher Xu Yahe's "Stone Boundary Tea." These works highlight the following advantages of Ancient Tree Tea:
1. Safety
Safety is a top concern for anything consumed. While China's rapid development has brought environmental challenges, Yunnan's high altitude and pristine ecosystems minimize pollution. Ancient trees, centuries or even millennia old, thrive without fertilizers or pesticides due to their deep roots and natural nourishment. Additionally, the sparse population and rugged terrain make chemical use impractical, and local regulations further ensure ecological protection.
2. Rich Nutrients
Yunnan's soil is rich in rare trace elements. Ancient tea trees, with their large canopies and deep roots, absorb and store these nutrients efficiently, making their tea more nutritious than others.
3. Unique Flavor
Ancient Tree Tea offers an unparalleled sensory experience, from its tea energy and aroma to its lingering sweetness and throat resonance. Pu-erh is often hailed as the "final destination" for tea lovers.
4. Aging Potential
Unlike most teas, Pu-erh improves with age. Properly stored pure Ancient Tree Tea becomes more fragrant and refined over time.
5. Investment Value
Before the 1970s, all Pu-erh came from ancient trees, and these aged teas are highly prized today. Not all teas age well—low-quality blends pale in comparison to pure Ancient Tree Tea.
In summary, Ancient Tree Tea's safety, richness, unique taste, aging potential, and investment value justify its premium status.