Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong

Most well-known under the moniker of Lapsang Souchong, this high-quality version has none of the tarry harshness common to the sort; instead, the soft smokiness of the long, twisted leaves transmutes into the flavours of roasted berries and grilled apples, like Tarte Tatin consumed in a grandmother’s kitchen. It shares a distinctive sweet-salty note with many of its Fujian brethren, which along with a soft mouthfeel and gentle pine aroma keeps it stimulating for infusion after infusion. If you’re a lover of the roasted, the smoked, and everything caramel, treat yourself to the best of this historic tea.