Wuyi Yancha 莲花峰 Lian Hua Feng- Lotus Peak, Cultivar: Rou Gui, 50g/Pack

Comparison of 2242 Wuyi Zhengyan Yancha "Shuiliandong Waterfall Cave" with 2241 Wuyi Yancha "Lianhuafeng Zhengyan Rou Gui"

The Zhengyan Waterfall Cave is a famous scenic spot in the Wuyi Mountain area, located near Huiyuankeng (慧苑坑), one of the core production areas for Yancha that belongs to the "Three Pits and Two Gullies" (三坑两涧). It is considered one of the most important cultivation areas for high-quality rock tea - Yancha. The Waterfall Cave is surrounded by mountains on three sides and only open to the east. The area receives a maximum of five hours of direct sunlight, while persistent fog with about 85% humidity further reduces this light exposure. The soil consists of volcanic weathering debris with more than 30% rock content. Summers are relatively cool, winters milder, and daily temperature fluctuations are also smaller.

The Lianhuafeng (Lotus Peak) location is also within the core Yancha production area, situated higher than the Waterfall Cave. The climatic conditions here are harsher: sunlight exposure lasts longer (though morning fog protects the plants), temperature variations between day and night as well as between summer and winter are greater, and the environment is drier.

Both Yancha teas are of equal quality but differ in style.

For both Rou Gui teas, we used 7g of tea with approximately 125ml of 100°C water, starting with very short steeping times beginning at 5 seconds and gradually increasing. The Waterfall Cave tea yields at least seven infusions, while the Lotus Peak tea can produce about eight.

Both teas exhibit strong minerality and a peppery sharpness, along with typical cinnamon notes, peach aromas, and comparable roasting characteristics.

The Waterfall Cave tea presents cooler, fresher and more elegant. Its aroma is delicately floral and fruity with long-lasting aftertaste.

In contrast, the Lotus Peak tea has a more robust aroma, resulting from greater diurnal temperature variations. The cinnamon note is particularly stronger and accompanied by caramel tones. The tea's intensity allows for more infusions.

The Waterfall Cave tea invites a wine comparison: it's the Riesling among Yancha teas.