These two black teas carry rich histories and distinctive tastes that continue to captivate tea enthusiasts worldwide.
The Origins of Jin Jun Mei
Jin Jun Mei Tea is a relatively new addition to the world of Chinese tea, yet it has quickly gained a reputation for its high quality and craftsmanship. Developed in the early 2000s, this tea is a premium variety of Lapsang Souchong, made from the delicate buds of tea leaves plucked in the Wuyi Mountains. Its name reflects its appearance: "Jin" means gold, referring to the golden tips of the tea buds, "Jun" denotes noble, and "Mei" translates to eyebrow, symbolising the shape of the leaves.
The making of Jin Jun Mei is an intricate process. Tea farmers hand-pick the young buds early in the spring, and these buds undergo a complex fermentation and oxidation process, carefully monitored to create a balanced flavour. Because of the labour-intensive harvesting method and the delicate nature of the buds, Jin Jun Mei is a rare and costly tea, often considered a luxury for tea connoisseurs.
The Unique Flavour Profile of Jin Jun Mei
Jin Jun Mei offers a beautifully complex flavour that sets it apart from other black teas. The tea produces a golden-hued liquid that is smooth and rich with layers of taste. At first sip, it delivers a sweet, floral note that transitions into a deeper, honey-like flavour. Some even detect a hint of fruity tones reminiscent of dried plum or apricot. This tea has a long, lingering aftertaste that is both sweet and slightly malty, creating a well-rounded experience.
Its delicate nature means that Jin Jun Mei should be brewed with care. Using water that is too hot or steeping for too long can damage its subtle flavours. A temperature of around 85°C is ideal, with a steeping time of 2-3 minutes to bring out its best qualities.
Lapsang Souchong: A Bold Classic
Lapsang Souchong is another renowned tea from the Wuyi region, but it couldn’t be more different from Jin Jun Mei in terms of flavour. Often referred to as "smoked tea," Lapsang Souchong is one of the oldest types of black tea in the world. Legend has it that during the Qing Dynasty, a group of tea farmers had to dry their tea leaves quickly after being interrupted by soldiers passing through their village. To speed up the process, they dried the leaves over pinewood fires, creating the distinctive smoky flavour that Lapsang Souchong is known for today.
The tea leaves used for Lapsang Souchong are older and larger than those used for Jin Jun Mei, giving it a robust character. The leaves are smoked over pine or cypress wood, which imbues the tea with a bold, smoky aroma that often surprises first-time drinkers.
The Bold Flavour of Lapsang Souchong
Lapsang Souchong’s flavour is strong and unmistakable. The smokiness is front and centre, complemented by a rich, earthy undertone. Some describe its taste as being reminiscent of a campfire or cured meat, making it a popular choice for pairing with savoury foods. Despite its bold profile, Lapsang Souchong remains smooth and lacks the bitterness that some black teas can have.
The tea brews a dark, amber liquid that is both warming and comforting. It is an excellent choice for colder months when you crave something richer. Lapsang Souchong is typically brewed with boiling water (around 100°C) and can be steeped for 3-5 minutes to achieve its full flavour potential.
The Craftsmanship Behind These Teas
Both Jin Jun Mei and Lapsang Souchong are products of centuries-old tea-making techniques passed down through generations. The Wuyi Mountains’ unique climate, with its misty mornings and mineral-rich soil, provides the perfect environment for cultivating high-quality tea leaves. The careful handling of the leaves—whether by smoking over wood fires or meticulously fermenting them—demonstrates the artisanship that goes into creating these teas.
Health Benefits of Black Teas
In addition to their delightful flavours, both Jin Jun Mei and Lapsang Souchong offer health benefits. Like other black teas, they are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular health. Black teas are also known for their potential to boost metabolism, aid in digestion, and enhance mental alertness due to their moderate caffeine content.
Moreover, Lapsang Souchong’s smoky flavour can help soothe the throat, making it a comforting choice for those with colds or sore throats. Both teas can be enjoyed without any additives, allowing drinkers to savour their natural flavours and health-promoting properties.
Conclusion: A Sip of Tradition and Taste
Jin Jun Mei and Lapsang Souchong offer tea lovers two very different but equally captivating experiences. While Jin Jun Mei dazzles with its delicate sweetness and complexity, Lapsang Souchong stands bold with its smoky, earthy character. Both teas are masterpieces of Chinese tea culture, reflecting the history, craftsmanship, and natural beauty of the Wuyi Mountains.
Whether you prefer the gentle floral notes of Jin Jun Mei or the robust smokiness of Lapsang Souchong, these teas invite you to slow down, appreciate the art of tea making, and indulge in the rich traditions that have made Chinese tea so cherished around the world.
