Description: Xiaozhong means "sub-variety". Lapsang souchong is a member of the Bohea family of teas though not an oolong, as are most Bohea teas ("Bohea" is the pronunciation in Minnan dialect for Wuyi Mountains, which is the mountain area producing a large family of tea in South-East China). "Souchong" refers to the fourth and fifth leaves of the tea plant, further away from the more highly prized bud (pekoe) of the tea plant. These leaves are coarser than the leaves closer to the bud, and have fewer aromatic compounds. Smoking provides a way to create a marketable product from these less desirable leaves. According to some sources, Lapsang souchong is the first black tea in history, even earlier than Keemun tea. After the lapsang souchong tea was used for producing black tea called Min Hong (meaning "Black tea produced in Fujian"), people started to move the tea bush to different places, such as Keemun, India and Ceylon.

 Brewing Guide: We highly recommend brewing Lapsang Souchong gongfu style to appreciate its many layers of flavor. The tea may be prepared in a gaiwan, an Yixing clay pot, or in individual cups. Use about 1 tsp. per cup (8 oz.) of water heated to 95°C (205°F). Infuse for 2-3 minutes and pour off. The leaves may be resteeped 1-3 times.