Original Lapsang Souchong

Centuries ago, Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong or Lapsang Souchong was a widely exported red tea. However, it has been overlooked for the past decade due to the hard work necessary to produce it and modern red teas have gained popularity, making authentic Lapsang Souchong rare.

Our Lapsang Souchong is sourced from its original birthplace, Tong Mu Guan. A small area located in Xing Cun, Wu Yi Shan, Fujian province. The tea was crafted using the original Xiao Zhong varietal in spring 2013 and was smoked using pine wood and traditional methods.

The careful storage has allowed this 11 year old beautiful red tea to evolve into a real treat with layers and complexity. The tea liquor is full-bodied with a well integrated smoke layer that is complemented by the traditional dry red fruits flavor. There is a mild sweetness accentuating the indulgent side of the tea, the length is good and the tea leaves can undergo several brews. As the tea is over a decade, we recommend to use a little bit more of leave than for a younger tea. Enjoy now or if you have enough leaves, you can store it in a cool and dry place for the next 10 years to experience how traditional processed Lapsang Souchong can endure the test of time

Brewing suggestions

We like to pair this fabulous red tea with Xiao Hong Ni clay with a water temperature of 95 to 100°C.

What to pair with it?

Pairing caviar creates a perfect pairing with the smoky and red fruit flavors complementing the strong iodine taste of caviar.