“This was the tea I was rummaging around for to have as a follow-up to a breakfast of a lentil/garbanzo/quinoa patty sandwich and some tater tots. Gone full western this time. No gaiwan action with...” Read full tasting note
“Okay, I’m getting around to posting this review way later than planned. I finished a bunch of tea samples from Old Ways Tea last month, and until now, I have yet to get around to posting any of...” Read full tasting note
Known as yan xun xiao zhong in Wuyishan, this is zhen shan xiao zhong (similar to Old Tree Black Tea or the Wild Style Black Tea) that has been smoked in the traditional manner over pine branches to impart a smokey flavor.
The strong preference in the Chinese market is for unsmoked Wuyi black teas. Smoked teas have a “for export” connotation. Additionally, many Lapsang Souchong teas have an overwhelmingly strong or acrid smoke flavor.
I found out about this tea after hearing some family members remarking on how surprised they were by the quality. My cousin produced this batch in the mountains above Tongmu. The smoke flavor is strong, but clean. The first steep may give you the impression of cooking breakfast over a pine fire, but the smoke flavor quickly mellows out, and becomes well balanced with the sweetness of the black tea and mineral flavors.
Anyone who enjoys other smoked products should give this a try. The tea is quality and well smoked, but not subtle!
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