|
|
|
Information: This special smoked tea has a distinctive flavor sometimes referred to as tarry, and is a special tea from the Fujian province. The Fukienese word 'souchong' means sub variety - that is a sub variety of other black teas from the Wuji Mountains of Fujian. When Lapsang Souchong was first exported to western European countries and became famous on the international markets - it was no doubt due to the distinct aroma and flavor. Interestingly the best Lapsang is produced in the nature preserve located in the Wuji Mountains where the high mountains with thick pine forests and heavy mist provide the ideal environment for growing top quality tea. Legend claims that the smoking process was discovered by accident. During the Qing dynasty, an army unit passing through Xingcun camped in a tea factory filled with fresh leaves waiting processing. When the soldiers left and the workers could get back into the premises, they realized that to arrive at market in time, it was too late to dry the leaves in the usual way. So they lit open fires of pinewood to hasten the drying. Not only did the tea reach the market in time, but also the smoked pine flavor created a sensation. Lapsang Souchong is best described as an acquired taste. Depending upon one's palate the taste can be light and intriguing or it can Hot Brewing Method: Bring freshly drawn cold water to just before a boil. Place 1 teaspoon of tea for each cut in the teapot. Pour your hot water over the leaves. Let steep for 3-7 minutes according to taste (The longer the steeping time the stronger the tea). Add milk and sugar to taste. Iced Tea Brewing Method: Place 6 teaspoons of tea into a teapot or heat resistant pitcher. Pour 1 1/4 cups of very hot water over to tea, steep for 5 minutes. Pour the tea into your serving pitcher straining the leaves. Add ice and garnish and sweeten to taste if desired.
|