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Zhengshan Xiaozhong (正山小种, Zhēngshān xiǎozhǒng), which translates as "small variety from that very mountain," is one of the most famous and respected Chinese red teas. Its homeland is the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian Province, where tea bushes are grown at an altitude of over a thousand meters above sea level.
History and Features
Zhengshan Xiaozhong tea traces its history back to the early 17th century. This tea is unique in that its leaves undergo a special process—smoking over pine logs. This process gives the tea its unique smoky aroma and rich flavor.
By the early 17th century, Xiaozhong was being purchased by Dutch merchants and supplied to the European market, where it found favor, particularly among the British royal family. Thus, this small variety gained fame and became a symbol of Chinese tea. The growing area, surrounded by mountains, has a relatively cold climate with large temperature differences between day and night. There are over 100 foggy days a year, and the humidity remains at 85%.
Key features of Zhengshan xiaozhong:
- Smoky Aroma: The most distinctive feature of this tea is its intense smoky aroma with notes of pine and charcoal.
- Sweet Taste: Despite its smoky flavor, Zhengshan Xiaozhong has a sweet taste with hints of fruit, nuts, and honey.
- Rich color: The infusion has a deep red-brown color.
- Warm Finish: The finish is long and warming, with a slight sweetness and smoky notes.
Types of Zhengshan Xiaozhong
There are several varieties of Zhengshan Xiaozhong, which differ in harvest time and degree of fermentation:
- Spring Zhengshan Xiaozhong: The most valuable and fragrant, with a delicate taste and a light floral aroma.
- Summer Zhengshan Xiaozhong: More full-bodied and robust, with pronounced fruity notes.
- Autumn Zhengshan Xiaozhong: Has a deep, rich flavor with hints of dried fruits and nuts.
How to brew Zhengshan Xiaozhong
To reveal the full aroma and flavor of this tea, it is recommended to use the following recommendations:
- Water Temperature: The optimal water temperature for brewing is around 90-95 degrees Celsius.
- Amount of tea: For one gaiwan or teapot (150-200 ml), 5-7 grams of tea is enough.
- Brewing time: The first brewing should be short (5-7 seconds), subsequent ones – a little longer.
- Number of brews: Zhengshan Xiaozhong can be brewed several times, each time revealing new nuances of taste.
Health benefits
Zhengshan xiaozhong is rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and slow the aging process. It also helps strengthen the immune system and improve digestion.
Zhengshan Xiaozhong is a truly unique tea that will captivate you with its inimitable taste and aroma. Try it and appreciate all its virtues!
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Name in Chinese
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正山小种 |
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Pinyin
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zhèngshān xiǎozhǒng |
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English name
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Lapsang Souchong |
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Translation
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A small variety from that very mountain |
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Tea variety
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Lapsang Souchong |
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Country
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China |
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District
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Wuyi Mountains |
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Provinces
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Fujian (福建) |
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Habitat
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Уишань Баньян (武夷山半岩, wǔyíshān bànyán) |
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