Mengku (勐库) Tea Region

Mengku, located in Shuangjiang County (双江县) of Lincang (临沧) City, is arguably the most renowned and significant sub-region for Pu-erh tea production within Lincang. It is often referred to as the “Pearl of Pu-erh” due to its exceptional tea quality and ancient tea tree resources. The region is geographically divided by the Mengku River (勐库河) into the East and West Mengku mountains, each with distinct characteristics.

Geographical Features and Terroir

Mengku is characterized by its high altitude, abundant rainfall, and fertile soil, which are ideal for the growth of large-leaf varietals. The ancient tea tree groves, some dating back hundreds or even a thousand years, are a testament to the region’s rich tea heritage. The unique microclimates and diverse ecosystems contribute to the complex flavor profiles of Mengku teas.

• East Mengku (勐库东半山): Generally, teas from the East Mengku mountains are known for their prominent aroma, strong tea qi, and a balanced, sweet taste with a quick huigan (回甘 - returning sweetness). Famous villages in East Mengku include Donglai (东来), Baka (坝卡), and Dazhai (大寨).

• West Mengku (勐库西半山): Teas from the West Mengku mountains are often described as having a more robust and full-bodied taste, with a noticeable bitterness that quickly transforms into a rich sweetness. They are known for their thick and viscous tea liquor and strong, lasting tea qi. Famous villages in West Mengku include Bingdao (冰岛), Xigui (昔归), and Xiaohusai (小户赛).

Prominent Villages and Their Taste Profiles

Bingdao (冰岛)

Bingdao is the most famous and highly sought-after village within Mengku, often considered the “King of Pu-erh” in Lincang. Its teas are celebrated for their unparalleled sweetness and smoothness.

• Location: Bingdao Village is located in the West Mengku mountains.
• Taste Profile:
  • Bing Tang Tian (冰糖甜 - Rock Sugar Sweetness): This is the signature characteristic of Bingdao tea. The sweetness is clean, pure, and lingers long after the tea is swallowed, resembling the taste of rock sugar.
  • Minimal Bitterness and Astringency: Bingdao teas are exceptionally smooth with very low bitterness and astringency, making them highly approachable even for new Pu-erh drinkers.
  • Floral and Honey Aroma: The aroma is delicate, often described as floral, with hints of honey.
  • Soft and Silky Texture: The tea liquor is soft, silky, and full-bodied, providing a luxurious mouthfeel.
  • Strong Huigan and Shengjin: The returning sweetness and saliva production are rapid and long-lasting.
• 2025 Raw Leaf Price: Bingdao Old Village (冰岛老寨) raw leaf prices for 2025 spring tea are reported to be around 48,000 CNY/kg, with some top-tier ancient tree tea reaching 48,000 - 95,000 CNY/kg.

Xigui (昔归)

Xigui is another highly esteemed village, known for its powerful tea qi and complex flavor profile.

• Location: Xigui is technically located in Bangdong (邦东) but is often grouped with Mengku’s premium teas due to its reputation and similar characteristics to some West Mengku teas.
• Taste Profile:
  • Strong Tea Qi (霸气 - Dominating Qi): Xigui teas are famous for their strong and assertive tea qi, which provides a profound body sensation.
  • Rich and Complex Flavor: The flavor is multi-layered, with a good balance of bitterness and sweetness. The initial bitterness quickly transforms into a rich and lasting sweetness.
  • Floral and Fruity Aroma: Often exhibits a prominent floral and fruity aroma, sometimes with notes of orchid.
  • Thick and Viscous Texture: The tea liquor is thick, viscous, and coats the mouth and throat, providing a substantial feel.
  • Rapid and Lasting Huigan and Shengjin: Known for its quick and powerful returning sweetness and saliva production.
• 2025 Raw Leaf Price: Xigui ancient tree raw leaf prices for 2025 are reported to be in the range of 7,000 - 11,000 CNY/kg.

Xiaohusai (小户赛)

Xiaohusai is a rising star in Mengku, gaining recognition for its unique and appealing taste.

• Location: Xiaohusai is located in the West Mengku mountains.
• Taste Profile: While specific detailed taste profiles are still emerging, Xiaohusai teas are generally noted for their balanced flavor, good aroma, and a pleasant, smooth character. They offer a good balance of bitterness and sweetness, with a clear huigan.
• 2025 Raw Leaf Price: Prices for Xiaohusai raw leaf are on the rise, though specific 2025 figures are not as widely published as Bingdao or Xigui. It is considered a more accessible premium option.

Mengku Tea Production and Market

Mengku teas, especially those from ancient trees, are highly valued in the Pu-erh market. The limited production from ancient tea gardens and the high demand contribute to their premium pricing. The region’s commitment to traditional processing methods further enhances the quality and reputation of Mengku Pu-erh tea.