Jin Jun Mei Tea and Lapsang Souchong Tea: A Taste of Tradition

Jin Jun Mei Tea

Jin Jun Mei tea is a celebrated variety of black tea from the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian province, China. Known for its exquisite taste and aroma, Jin Jun Mei, which translates to "Golden Eyebrow," is a premium tea made from tender young buds picked during the early spring season. The name refers to the golden tips of the tea leaves that resemble eyebrows.

Characteristics:

• Appearance: The tea leaves are slender and covered with golden tips. They have a slightly curly shape and a rich, golden-brown colour after brewing.
• Aroma: The fragrance is sweet and floral with hints of honey and caramel, offering a subtle yet pleasant aroma.
• Taste: Jin Jun Mei delivers a smooth and mellow flavour profile with a natural sweetness. Notes of malt, honey, and a slight hint of cocoa create a balanced and sophisticated taste.
• Brewing: For optimal flavour, steep Jin Jun Mei in water heated to about 85-90°C for 2-3 minutes. This careful brewing ensures that the delicate flavours are preserved.

Origin: The tea is primarily produced in the Wuyi Mountains, an area renowned for its tea-growing heritage. The unique climatic and soil conditions of the region contribute to the distinct characteristics of Jin Jun Mei.

Lapsang Souchong Tea

Lapsang Souchong is another black tea from the Wuyi Mountains, but it is quite different in character from Jin Jun Mei. Its name, Lapsang Souchong, comes from the Chinese words "Lapsang" meaning "pine mountain" and "Souchong" referring to a specific grade of tea.

Characteristics:

• Appearance: The tea leaves are long and thin, dark brown to black in colour. They are often twisted and have a somewhat irregular shape.
• Aroma: Lapsang Souchong is famous for its distinctive smoky aroma, which is achieved through a traditional smoking process using pinewood fires. This gives the tea a robust and earthy scent.
• Taste: The flavour is bold and smoky with hints of pine and wood. It has a slightly sweet undertone but remains strong and assertive, making it a favourite among those who enjoy intense flavours.
• Brewing: To brew Lapsang Souchong, use water heated to about 90-95°C and steep for 3-5 minutes. This ensures that the full smoky flavour is extracted without becoming too overpowering.

Origin: Like Jin Jun Mei, Lapsang Souchong also hails from the Wuyi Mountains. Its unique smoking process, which dates back to the Qing Dynasty, distinguishes it from other black teas.

Conclusion

Both Jin Jun Mei and Lapsang Souchong offer unique tea experiences rooted in traditional Chinese tea culture. Jin Jun Mei impresses with its delicate sweetness and floral aroma, while Lapsang Souchong stands out with its distinctive smoky flavour. Exploring these teas provides a glimpse into the rich diversity of black tea and the craftsmanship behind each variety.