Old Bush Lapsang Souchong 老枞小种 (2026)

Rare unsmoked Lapsang Souchong from 100-year-old Cai Cha bushes in nature reserve Tong Mu guan , offering golden liquor, honeyed depth, and lasting freshness. Tea Profile Type: Black Tea (Unsmoked Lapsang Souchong, Zhengshan Xiaozhong) Location: Guaduan Village 挂墩, Tongmuguan, Wuyishan Altitude: 1200–1400m Harvest Date: May 18th, 2026 Cultivar: Wuyi Cai Cha 武夷菜茶 (Heirloom Qun Ti Zhong 群体种) Age of Tea Bushes: Over 100 years The Story of This Tea This old bush Lapsang Souchong was crafted from wild Cai Cha trees growing deep within the Wuyishan National Nature Reserve. At 1200 to 1400 meters, these century-old bushes thrive among moss-covered rocks and pristine forest air. Their deep roots draw from mineral-rich soils, giving the tea its clarity and sweetness. Each spring, the yield is tiny. These tall, untamed bushes produce limited tender shoots, handpicked by local farmers who have tended these slopes for generations. The result is a black tea that reflects the untouched ecology of Wuyishan. Pure, balanced, and full of quiet mountain energy. Aroma and Flavour The dry leaves are large and twisted, resembling fine Yancha. Once steeped, they release a golden, bright liquor that fills the cup with a refreshing mountain aroma. The tea opens with notes of honey and fruit before deepening into sweet potato warmth and floral sweetness. Its texture is silky and cooling, leaving a lingering sweetness in the throat that recalls the freshness of a mountain stream. Aroma: Honey, dried fruit, flowers, and sweet potato with a clean mountain freshness Flavor: Smooth, naturally sweet, and bright with balanced depth Texture: Silky and refreshing, with a pure, cooling finish Aftertaste: Lingering sweetness and forest-cool sensation Steeping Endurance: 8 to 10 infusions without losing clarity Brewing Guidelines Gong Fu Style Teaware: Porcelain gaiwan or glass pot Ratio: 6–7 g per 100 ml water Water: 95–100°C spring water Infusions: Brief rinse, then 8–10 infusions, gradually extending steeping time Western Style Teaware: Porcelain or glass teapot Ratio: 3–4 g per 250 ml water Water: 95–100°C Steeping: 3–4 minutes for the first infusion; resteep 2–3 times Why Choose This Tea Harvested from wild Cai Cha bushes over a century old, this unsmoked Zhengshan Xiaozhong embodies the true heritage of Wuyi Rock Tea. The high-altitude terroir of Guaduan Village gives it clarity and sweetness rarely found in modern black teas. Its endurance across many infusions and golden, honeyed liquor make it an exceptional choice for anyone seeking authentic Chinese tea with natural elegance and depth. Perfect for collectors and Wuyishan purists who appreciate teas with both character and calm.