Jin Jun Mei Tea: The Elite of Chinese Black Teas

Origins and Production

Jin Jun Mei Tea is a premium black tea originating from the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian Province, China. It is a relatively recent addition to the world of high-quality teas, first produced in the early 2000s. The tea is crafted from tender buds of the tea plant, specifically the top young leaves, which are picked in the spring.

The production process involves withering, rolling, oxidising, and drying. Jin Jun Mei is known for its meticulous hand-processing, which includes gentle rolling and precise oxidation levels to achieve its distinctive flavour profile. The tea is often praised for its attention to detail and quality, resulting in a refined and elegant beverage.

Appearance and Aroma

Jin Jun Mei Tea is easily recognisable by its appearance. The dry leaves are slender, tightly twisted, and covered in a golden-orange down, which gives it a luxurious look. When brewed, the tea produces a bright, amber-coloured liquor that is clear and inviting.

The aroma of Jin Jun Mei is complex and aromatic. It has a rich, honey-like sweetness with notes of malt, cocoa, and a hint of floral undertones. The scent is often described as warm and inviting, creating an appealing prelude to the tea's flavour.

Flavour Profile

Jin Jun Mei Tea is renowned for its smooth, well-balanced flavour. The taste is characterised by a sweet, malty richness with notes of caramel, honey, and a subtle cocoa essence. The tea has a full-bodied, robust character but maintains a refined smoothness without any bitterness. The finish is clean and satisfying, with a lingering sweet aftertaste.

The brewing process for Jin Jun Mei requires careful attention. Use water at around 90–95°C and steep for 3 to 4 minutes. Over-steeping can result in bitterness, so it's important to adjust the steeping time based on personal preference and taste.

Health Benefits

Jin Jun Mei Tea offers several health benefits, typical of high-quality black teas. It is rich in antioxidants, which can help combat free radicals and support overall health. The tea also provides a moderate caffeine boost, making it a good choice for those seeking a gentle lift without excessive stimulation. Additionally, its polyphenol content can aid in digestion and support cardiovascular health.

Lapsang Souchong Tea: The Smoky Classic

Origins and Production

Lapsang Souchong Tea, also known as Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong, hails from the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian Province, China, and has a history that dates back to the 17th century. This black tea is famous for its distinctive smoky flavour, which sets it apart from other teas.

The production process of Lapsang Souchong involves withering, rolling, fermenting, and drying, but with a unique step that distinguishes it from other black teas. After the leaves are rolled, they are traditionally smoked over pinewood fires. This smoking process imparts a deep, smoky flavour that is characteristic of Lapsang Souchong.

Appearance and Aroma

The dry leaves of Lapsang Souchong are long, thin, and twisted, with a dark brown to black colour. When brewed, the tea produces a deep, reddish-brown liquor that is robust and hearty.

The aroma of Lapsang Souchong is bold and unmistakable. It has a pronounced smoky scent, with additional notes of pine, wood, and a subtle sweetness. The smokiness is the dominant feature, creating a unique and powerful fragrance that distinguishes it from other black teas.

Flavour Profile

Lapsang Souchong is known for its intense and distinctive smoky flavour. The tea offers a rich, full-bodied taste with prominent notes of pine smoke, wood, and a touch of maltiness. The flavour can be quite strong, with a lingering smokiness that persists on the palate. While the smoky character is the primary flavour note, there can also be hints of dried fruit or sweetness, depending on the specific blend and processing.

To brew Lapsang Souchong, use water at approximately 90–95°C and steep for 3 to 5 minutes. The strong flavour of the tea means it can be brewed multiple times, with each infusion revealing slightly different nuances of its smoky character.

Health Benefits

Lapsang Souchong Tea shares many of the health benefits associated with black tea. It contains antioxidants that can help reduce oxidative stress and support overall health. The caffeine content in Lapsang Souchong provides a stimulating effect, making it suitable for those seeking an energy boost. Additionally, the tea's unique smoky flavour may aid in digestion and offer a comforting, warming experience.

Comparing Jin Jun Mei and Lapsang Souchong

Flavour and Aroma

The most significant difference between Jin Jun Mei and Lapsang Souchong lies in their flavour profiles. Jin Jun Mei is known for its smooth, sweet, and malty taste with subtle cocoa and floral notes. In contrast, Lapsang Souchong is characterised by its intense smoky flavour, with a robust and earthy quality that stands out.

Processing Methods

Jin Jun Mei undergoes a careful oxidation process with no additional flavouring, resulting in a refined, elegant tea. Lapsang Souchong, however, is deliberately smoked over pinewood, imparting its distinctive smoky aroma and taste. This smoking process is a key element that defines the tea's unique character.

Appearance

Jin Jun Mei has a luxurious appearance with its slender, golden-orange down-covered leaves. Lapsang Souchong, on the other hand, features long, dark leaves with a more rugged appearance, reflecting its robust processing method.

Health Benefits

Both teas offer health benefits common to black teas, including antioxidants and moderate caffeine content. Jin Jun Mei provides a smoother, milder option, while Lapsang Souchong offers a bold flavour with similar health benefits but with a distinctive smoky twist.

Conclusion Jin Jun Mei and Lapsang Souchong represent two distinct approaches to black tea production. Jin Jun Mei is celebrated for its smooth, sweet profile and refined quality, while Lapsang Souchong is renowned for its bold, smoky flavour. Each tea provides a unique tasting experience and showcases the diversity within the world of black teas.