Lapsang Souchong (正山小种) is a unique black tea produced in the Tongmuguan region of Wuyi Mountain in Fujian Province, China. It not only has a long history, but is also known for its unique smoky aroma and rich flavor. Known as the "originator of black tea", Zhengshan Souchong is not only an unforgettable tea, but also a precious member of the black tea family.
Origin and history of Zhengshan Xiaojiao
The history of Zhengshan Xiaojiao can be traced back to the Chongzhen period of the Ming Dynasty (about 1640). It is said that at that time, when tea farmers in the Tongmuguan area were making green tea, they were delayed in making the tea due to the war and evacuation. In order to prevent the tea from deteriorating, they roasted and dried the tea leaves on pine wood, which accidentally produced the unique aroma of pine smoke, thus giving birth to Zhengshan Xiaozhuang.
Unique production process
The production process of Zheng Shan Xiao Seed is unique and consists of four main steps: withering, kneading, fermentation and drying. Unlike other black teas, Zheng Shan Xiao Seed is smoked with pine wood during the drying process, which gives the tea a strong aroma of pine smoke. This traditional process not only preserves the tea's natural aroma, but also gives it a unique flavor.
Tea Characteristics and Drinking Experience
The dry tea leaves of Zhengshan Xiaojiao are dark in color and tightly knotted. After brewing, the tea broth is deep red in color, bright and attractive. The most unforgettable is its aroma and taste: after entering the mouth, you can first feel the rich aroma of pine smoke, followed by a slight sweetness of cinnamon, and finally a long and sweet aftertaste.
This unique taste makes Zhengshan Xiaojiao perfect for pairing with strong flavored dishes such as curries and various meat dishes. Its strong smoky aroma not only neutralizes the greasiness of the food, but also adds a special flavor.
Environment and natural conditions of origin
Tongmuguan, where Zhengshan Xiaochao is produced, is located in Wuyishan City, Fujian Province, where the mountains are high and the valleys deep, the climate is cold, the annual precipitation is abundant, the humidity is high, there are many foggy days, the sunshine is short, and the soil is fertile, which is suitable for the growth of tea trees. This natural environment creates the excellent quality of tea, making Zhengshan Xiaojiao unique among many black teas.
Modern developments and market impacts
With the passage of time, Zhengshan Xiaojiao is not only popular in the domestic market, but also gradually going international. Many foreign tea lovers are attracted by its unique smoky aroma and rich flavor, and it has become a bright star in the global tea market. Especially in the UK, Zhengshan Xiao Seed is known as "Lapsang Souchong" and is loved by local tea lovers.
In addition, on the basis of Zhengshan Xiaojiao, high-end black tea varieties such as Jinjunmei have been developed, which not only retain the essence of Zhengshan Xiaojiao, but also have new enhancements in quality and flavor, further consolidating its important position in the black tea family .
How to Taste Zhengshan Xiaojiao
To taste Zhengshan Xiaojiao, you can start from the following aspects:
- look at its color: High-quality Zhengshan Xiaojiao tea leaves are dark in color, and the tea broth shows a translucent deep red color after brewing.
- sing of its fragrance: The dry tea leaves have a distinct aroma of pine smoke, which is even more intense after brewing, interspersed with a hint of sweet cinnamon.
- savor its flavor: Upon entering the mouth, the aroma of pine smoke comes to the nose, followed by a slight sweetness, and a mellow tea soup with a long aftertaste.
Zhengshan Xiao Seed, a black tea with hundreds of years of history, is not just a beverage, it carries a part of Chinese tea culture and is the embodiment of tea art and tea ceremony. Whether in the busy after work, or in the leisurely afternoon, brew a pot of Zhengshan Xiao Seed, enjoy the moment of peace and beauty, is a sense of life rituals, but also the pursuit of quality of life. What kind of tea is Zhengshan Xiaojiao?
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