Basic Introduction to Linhai Yangmei
Linhai is one of the largest Yangmei (Bayberry) production bases in Zhejiang Province, with a cultivated area of 110,000 mu (approximately 7,333 hectares), an annual yield of 40,000 tons, and an output value close to 200 million yuan. It is the second-largest fruit industry in Linhai City, following citrus fruits. The Yangmei flowers and bears fruit in February, ripens in May, and its round drupe-like fruit is densely covered with many cyst-like structures. The fruit comes in three colors: red, white, and purple, with bright red being the highest quality.
Nutritional Value
Linhai Yangmei contains sugars, organic acids, and certain amounts of vitamin C. Among minerals, it has a higher content of potassium and iron. Its beverages have the characteristics of electrolyte drinks and can be used for replenishing iron. Linhai Yangmei also contains a certain amount of dietary fiber, which can promote intestinal movement, maintain digestive tract health, and has functions such as aiding digestion, relieving summer heat, generating saliva, and removing dampness. The anthocyanins and flavonoids in the Yangmei fruit have antioxidant properties, help regulate blood lipids, and lower cholesterol.
Product Characteristics
The Linhai Early Large Bayberry is a superior variety of the local water bayberry, known for its early maturity, large fruit size, good storage qualities, and excellent flavor. The Linhai Dongkui Yangmei is characterized by its exceptionally large fruit, bright color, pleasant sour-sweet taste, and strong flavor.
History and Folklore
Linhai Yangmei is associated with a tragic yet beautiful legend. According to folklore, there were once two sisters-in-law who lived together. The younger sister was skilled at embroidering all kinds of flowers except for those of the Yangmei, due to their short blooming period. One year, she insisted on going up the mountain on New Year's Eve to observe the shape of the Yangmei blossoms and was unfortunately killed by a tiger. Her sister-in-law went up the mountain the next day searching for her, calling out for her sister, and upon seeing bloodstains, realized that her sister had been attacked by a tiger. She then intermittently cried out “Sister—Tiger, Sister—Tiger” until she turned into a green bird. This is how the folk tale of “Sisters-in-Law Bird” came about. To this day, when Yangmei are in season, “Sisters-in-Law Birds” fly to the Yangmei mountains, sorrowfully calling “Sister Tiger, Sister Tiger…” which is heart-wrenching to hear.
Tasting and Eating Linhai Yangmei
Yangmei Wine
Ingredients: 350 grams of Yangmei, 500 grams of white liquor, 100 grams of rock sugar.
Instructions:
1. Soak the Yangmei in saltwater for 15 minutes, then rinse clean with water;
2. Prepare 100 grams of rock sugar;
3. Choose a clear, light-flavored pure-grain distilled liquor around 45% alcohol;
4. Allow the washed Yangmei to air dry on a rack;
5. Gently place the dried Yangmei in a glass container one by one;
6. Layer the Yangmei and rock sugar alternately;
7. Pour the white liquor into the glass container containing the Yangmei and rock sugar, ensuring the liquor covers the Yangmei by 1-2 centimeters;
8. Seal the container tightly and store it in a cool, well-ventilated place;
9. Shake the bottle every three days; the wine will be ready to drink after 15-25 days of fermentation;
10. Chill before serving for a better drinking experience.