Gui yuan heijin xiaozhong (Small variety Black gold of brown tree garden)

Gui Yuan Heijin Xiaozhong is a truly exquisite variety of Chinese red tea, which is translated as "Small variety Black gold of the garden of brown trees." This name itself speaks of its exclusivity and rich history. It is one of the varieties of the famous tar tea Lapsang Souchong.

Zhengshan Xiaozhong (Chinese: 正山小种, pinyin: zhèngshān xiǎozhǒng) is one of the most famous varieties of Chinese black tea, renowned for its unique smoky aroma.

• "正山" (pinyin Zhèngshān) means "correct mountain" or "true mountain", indicating that the tea is produced in a specific region with special climatic conditions.
• "小种" (Pinyin Xiǎozhǒng) translates as "small variety" and refers to the small tea bushes used to produce this tea.

Lapsang Souchong is prized for its deep, rich flavor with hints of smoke, fruit, caramel, and nuts. Its unique aroma is achieved through the traditional technique of roasting tea leaves over an open fire of pine logs.

Unlike the classic Lapsang Souchong, Gui Yuan Heijin Xiaozhong has a softer, sweeter aroma with hints of fruit (often compared to longan or lychee) and flowers. Smoky notes are present, but they are more restrained and blend harmoniously with other flavors.

What makes Lapsang Souchong special?

Deep flavor: The flavor of this tea is multifaceted and changes with each subsequent brewing. It starts with a bright sweetness, gradually revealing more complex shades: nutty, honey, sometimes even chocolate.

High quality: This tea is made from the youngest and most tender buds of the tea bush, which gives it a special tenderness and softness.

Medicinal properties: Like many other varieties of red tea, Gui Yuan Heijin Xiaozhong is rich in antioxidants and other beneficial substances that help strengthen the immune system, improve digestion and increase the overall tone of the body.

How to brew Gui Yuan Heijin Xiaozhong?

To fully reveal all the nuances of the taste of this tea, it is recommended to use the following recommendations:

• Water temperature: The optimal water temperature for brewing is about 90°C.
• Amount of tea: For a gaiwan or teapot with a capacity of 120 ml, 5-8 grams of tea is enough.
• Brewing time: First brew – 15 seconds, subsequent ones – a little longer.
• Utensils: It is best to use a clear glass or porcelain teapot to watch the tea leaves open and the color of the infusion change.

What goes well with Gui Yuan Heijin Xiaozhong?

• Desserts: Tea goes well with light desserts such as fruit salads, mousses and cakes.
• Honey and Nuts: Adding honey and nuts to your tea will bring out the sweet and fruity notes.
• Light Snacks: This tea makes a great accompaniment to light snacks such as canapés or fruit.

Gui Yuan Heijin Xiaozhong is a real treasure for connoisseurs of exquisite tastes. Its soft, sweet aroma and rich taste will not leave anyone indifferent. If you want to try something new and unusual in the world of tea, then Gui Yuan Heijin Xiaozhong is an excellent choice.

Lapsang souchong is useful for hiking and traveling. Sinologist Jack Pratt wrote in his book about how a mug of this tea with rum helped him get rid of the effects of severe pitching during a sea voyage.

Zhengshan xiaozhong is mentioned in some literary works and even in songs. This tea is drunk by the characters of the works of Victor Pelevin, Mikhail Kharitonov, Monica Ali, Francis Brody. The group "Sansara" called one of its songs "Lapsang Souchong".