2026 Yunnan Grand Cru · Wild Ancient Arbor Qi Nan Cha
2026 Yunnan Grand Cru · Wild Ancient Arbor Qi Nan Cha
Wild Mountain Botanical Infusion · Precious Woods · Amber & Balsamic Aromatics
A RARE BOTANICAL INFUSION FROM YUNNAN
Discover an unusual botanical infusion inspired by the ancient forests of Yunnan, China. The 2026 Wild Ancient Arbor Qi Nan Cha stands out through its distinctive woody, resinous and balsamic aromatic profile.
Inspired by the precious agarwood tradition of Qi Nan, this intriguing infusion invites a slower and more contemplative approach to tasting. Moreover, its evolving aromatic character makes it particularly interesting for enthusiasts of traditional Chinese infusion methods.
Origin: Yunnan, China
Region: Mountainous areas associated with Xishuangbanna, Lincang and Pu'er
Altitude: Approximately 1,800–2,400 metres, according to the supplied product information
Botanical identity: Described by the supplier as an agarwood-leaf infusion (Aquilaria / 沉香)
Chinese name: 云南野生古树奇楠茶
Aromatic signature: Precious woods, soft resin, balsamic notes and amber-like warmth
Liquor colour: Bright, deep amber
Preparation: Gong Fu Cha or Western-style infusion
THE ANCIENT FORESTS OF YUNNAN
Yunnan occupies a special place in the world of Chinese botanical traditions. Its mountainous landscapes, mist-covered forests and remarkable plant diversity create an evocative setting for this unusual infusion.
The name Qi Nan (奇楠) evokes one of Asia's most prized agarwood traditions. Historically associated with precious incense and complex woody fragrances, Qi Nan inspires the aromatic identity presented for this distinctive product.
Rather than focusing on bright floral notes or pronounced fruitiness, this infusion explores a deeper aromatic register. Precious woods, soft incense, forest resins and warm balsamic nuances define its intended character.
Furthermore, its preparation offers an opportunity to explore how successive infusions can reveal different aromatic dimensions. Each preparation invites the drinker to observe the liquor, appreciate its fragrance and discover its evolving character.
AROMATIC PROFILE & TASTING NOTES
AROMA
Precious woods · Soft incense · Balsamic nuances · Warm resin
The aromatic profile opens with a distinctive woody character. Gradually, softer resinous notes evoke sandalwood, fragrant incense and forest vegetation.
PALATE
Silky texture · Rounded warmth · Woody depth · Gentle sweetness
The liquor offers a smooth and enveloping character. Meanwhile, its woody and balsamic nuances create an aromatic experience that differs from conventional floral or fruity teas.
FINISH
Long · Balsamic · Warm · Gently sweet
The finish emphasizes the infusion's woody signature. Lingering aromatic impressions create a contemplative conclusion, particularly when the infusion unfolds through several successive preparations.
OVERALL CHARACTER
Woody · Resinous · Deep · Unconventional
An intriguing botanical profile for enthusiasts seeking distinctive aromatic experiences beyond traditional tea styles.
UNDERSTANDING THE CHINESE NAME
The Chinese terminology offers several clues to the product's intended identity and aromatic positioning.
野生 · Ye Sheng: Literally associated with wild growth, this designation presents the product as a wild botanical harvest.
古树 · Gu Shu: Refers to ancient trees, emphasizing the association with mature, long-established vegetation.
奇楠 · Qi Nan: Evokes precious agarwood and its celebrated aromatic tradition.
沉香 · Chen Xiang: The Chinese term associated with agarwood, a fragrant wood traditionally used in incense.
Together, these terms evoke ancient mountain landscapes and the aromatic heritage of Chinese culture. They also help explain the product's emphasis on woody, resinous and balsamic notes.
A DISTINCTIVE ADDITION TO A CURATED COLLECTION
The 2026 Yunnan Grand Cru · Wild Ancient Arbor Qi Nan Cha stands apart through its unusual woody and resinous aromatic direction.
Its presentation draws on the evocative world of precious incense, mountain botanicals and traditional Chinese tasting rituals. Consequently, it offers an alternative for enthusiasts who appreciate deep, contemplative aromatic profiles.
Whether prepared in a gaiwan or a larger teapot, this infusion invites a slower exploration of fragrance, texture and successive steepings.
A singular botanical experience for those drawn to the mysterious aromatic world of Qi Nan.
Tea Description
Origin: Yunnan, China
Region: Mountainous areas associated with Xishuangbanna, Lincang and Pu'er
Altitude: Approximately 1,800–2,400 metres, according to the supplied product information
Botanical identity: Described by the supplier as an agarwood-leaf infusion (Aquilaria / 沉香)
Chinese name: 云南野生古树奇楠茶
Aromatic signature: Precious woods, soft resin, balsamic notes and amber-like warmth
Liquor colour: Bright, deep amber
Preparation: Gong Fu Cha or Western-style infusion
How to enjoy it
This infusion rewards a measured approach rather than a hurried tasting. Begin with a small vessel and relatively short infusions, allowing the changing aromatic profile to guide each subsequent preparation.
For the most engaging experience, choose a porcelain gaiwan or a small Yixing teapot. These vessels encourage close attention to aroma, texture and the evolution of the liquor.
First, observe the dry leaves and their fragrance. Next, prepare a short infusion and appreciate its colour and initial aromas. Finally, repeat the process, adjusting the steeping time according to your preferred intensity.
The traditional Gong Fu Cha method provides an excellent framework for exploring successive infusions. Alternatively, a larger teapot offers a convenient approach for a more relaxed tasting session.
Suggested brewing
GONG FU CHA · TRADITIONAL METHOD
Teaware: Porcelain gaiwan
Vessel capacity: 80–110 ml
Tea quantity: 4 g
Water temperature: 95–100°C
First infusion: Approximately 25 seconds
Subsequent infusions: Increase steeping time by approximately 10 seconds as needed
Re-infusions: Several successive infusions, according to taste
This method emphasizes the evolution of aroma and flavour. However, adjust the steeping time to suit the particular batch and your preferred intensity.
WESTERN-STYLE INFUSION
Teaware: Teapot or large mug
Water volume: 500 ml
Tea quantity: Approximately 1 g, following the supplied brewing recommendations
Water temperature: 95°C
Steeping time: 5–6 minutes
Re-infusions: Experiment according to the remaining flavour
For a more concentrated preparation, gradually increase the quantity of leaves. This approach allows you to discover the balance that best suits your palate.