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 Mountain range in Fujian Province, where tea bushes are grown at an altitude of more than a thousand meters above sea level.
History and features
Zhengshan Xiaozhong dates back to the early 17th century. This tea is unique in that its leaves undergo a special treatment – smoking over pine logs. Thanks to this, the tea acquires its unique smoky aroma and rich taste.
By the early 17th century, Xiaozhong was being purchased by Dutch merchants and shipped to the European market, where it was especially popular with the British royal family. Thus, the small variety gained fame and became a symbol of Chinese tea. The growing area is surrounded by mountains and has a relatively cold climate with a large temperature difference between day and night. There are more than a hundred foggy days a year, and the air humidity is around 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 being smoked, 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 the time of harvesting and the degree of fermentation:
- Spring Zhengshan Xiaozhong: The most valuable and aromatic, with a delicate taste and a light floral aroma.
- Summer Zhengshan Xiaozhong: Richer and stronger, with pronounced fruity notes.
- Autumn Zhengshan Xiaozhong: Has a deep, rich flavor with hints of dried fruits and nuts.
How to Brew Zhengshan Xiaozhong
In order to reveal the full aroma and taste 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), the following ones – a little longer.
- Number of brews: Zhengshan Xiaozhong can be brewed several times, each time revealing new shades of taste.
Health benefits
Zhengshan xiaozhong is rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and slow down the aging process. In addition, it helps strengthen the immune system and improve digestion.
Zhengshan Xiaozhong is a truly unique tea that will captivate you with its unique taste and aroma. Try it and appreciate all its advantages!
|
Name in Chinese
|
正山小种 |
|
Pinyin
|
zhèngshān xiǎozhǒng |
|
Translation
|
Small variety from that very mountain |
|
Tea variety
|
Lapsang Souchong |
|
Country
|
China |
|
District
|
Wuyishan |
|
Provinces
|
Fujian (福建) |
|
Habitat
|
Уишань Баньян (武夷山半岩) |
|
Manufacturer
|
Фу Ча |
- Комментарии
- Вконтакте
