Lapsang Souchong
Lapsang Souchong is a Chinese black tea from the Wuyi region of Fujian, known for its distinctive smoky aroma.
Lapsang Souchong is a Chinese black tea from the Wuyi region of Fujian, known for its distinctive smoky aroma. It is traditionally made from *Camellia sinensis* leaves that are smoke-dried over pinewood fires. The tea is also commonly called *Zhengshan xiaozhong* in Chinese.
Origin and name
Lapsang Souchong is associated with the Wuyi region of Fujian province in China. The name *Zhengshan xiaozhong* is used for the traditional style, and sources associate the tea with Tongmu and nearby Wuyi Mountain areas.
Production
The tea is made from *Camellia sinensis* leaves that are processed and then smoke-dried over pinewood fires. This smoke-drying gives the tea its characteristic aroma and flavour.
Characteristics
Lapsang Souchong is noted for a pronounced smoky scent and taste, often described as resinous or campfire-like. It stands out from other black teas because smoke is a defining part of its finishing process.
Historical significance
Several sources describe Lapsang Souchong as one of the earliest black teas, though details vary across secondary accounts. It has long been associated with Chinese tea production and international trade.
Key facts
- It is a black tea with a strong smoky character.
- Traditional production uses pinewood smoke to dry the leaves.
- It originates in the Wuyi Mountains region of Fujian, China.
- It is often identified with the Chinese name *Zhengshan xiaozhong*.
- It is widely recognised as a distinctive smoked tea style.
It is sold in Canadian tea shops and specialty food stores, and is a familiar style among Canadian tea drinkers interested in smoky black teas.
Frequently asked questions
What is Lapsang Souchong?
Where does Lapsang Souchong come from?
Why does Lapsang Souchong taste smoky?
Is Lapsang Souchong a black tea?
What is another name for Lapsang Souchong?
Is Lapsang Souchong made from a special tea plant?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lapsang_souchongSupports: Basic definition as a black tea from *Camellia sinensis* leaves smoke-dried over pinewood fire; Chinese name Zhengshan xiaozhong.
- TeaPedia — https://teapedia.org/en/Lapsang_SouchongSupports: Origin in the Wuyi region of Fujian, China; description as smoked tea dried over pinewood fires.
- New World Encyclopedia — https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Lapsang_souchongSupports: Wuyi/Fujian origin and distinctive smoky flavour from pinewood smoke-drying.
- Serious Eats — https://www.seriouseats.com/lapsang-souchong-tea-history-how-to-brewSupports: Production description and smoky character; Wuyi Mountains origin.