Lapsang Souchong - 正山小种 - Chinese Black Tea - kungfu tea - red tea - king fu tea - 2024 Spring Tea

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Hailing from the mist-enshrouded Wuyi Mountains of Fujian Province, Lapsang Souchong is a distinctive black tea known for its rich, smoky flavor and deep cultural heritage. This tea, locally known as Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong, enjoys a storied history and holds the title of being the original black tea in the world. Our exploration of Lapsang Souchong will delve into its origins, production techniques, flavor profile, and the most enjoyable ways to brew this iconic tea.

Origin and History:

Lapsang Souchong’s legacy harks back to the Qing Dynasty when it was accidentally discovered during a period of turmoil. The tea obtained its unique smokiness from being dried over pine fires to speed up the drying process so that it could be quickly transported and sold. This serendipitous invention marked the birth of an entirely new category of tea, capturing the hearts of tea enthusiasts globally. The name ‘Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong’ translates to “from the original mountain, small variety,” highlighting its authentic origins and the specific small-leaf tea plant used for its creation.

Cultivation and Harvesting:

Grown in the high altitudes and fertile soil of the Wuyi Mountains, Lapsang Souchong benefits from the region’s unique terroir, which imparts a natural complexity to the tea. The cool and moist climate fosters tea bushes that yield leaves rich in aromatic compounds, establishing the perfect foundation for this full-bodied tea. Harvesting takes place in late spring when the tea leaves possess the ideal balance of flavors.

Processing Techniques:

The processing of Lapsang Souchong is an art that has been refined over centuries. It begins with the withering of freshly plucked leaves, which is followed by rolling to break the cell structure and enhance flavor release. The leaves are then fermented to a perfect level before being dried over pine wood fires. This smoking process defines the tea’s character, imparting the signature smoky aroma and a beautiful amber hue to the brewed cup.

Tasting Profile:

Lapsang Souchong is renowned for its bold and assertive profile. It boasts a rich tapestry of flavors, from smoky and peaty to notes of leather and dried fruit. The aroma is distinctive and comforting, akin to a campfire or a wood-burning stove. The taste is robust, with the smoke not overwhelming but rather complementing the underlying sweetness and the subtle astringency of the tea, leading to a remarkably balanced and smooth finish.

Brewing the Perfect Cup:

For a traditional brewing experience, start with one teaspoon of Lapsang Souchong per 8-ounce cup of freshly boiled water. Steep the leaves for 3-5 minutes, depending on your preferred strength. This tea shines when brewed at a slightly cooler temperature (around 90°C or 194°F) to avoid bitterness and to allow the intricate flavors to take center stage. Lapsang Souchong can be enjoyed straight, or with a splash of milk to create a soothing and indulgent experience.

As the quintessential smoked tea, Lapsang Souchong is a must-try for adventurous palates and lovers of bold flavors. Its unique production process and the skillful balance of smoky notes with classic black tea warmth offer an unrivaled tea drinking experience. Infused with history and the essence of the Wuyi Mountains, Lapsang Souchong stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Chinese tea culture.