Chigan 赤甘 (2025)

Tea Profile

Type: Black Tea (Zhengshan Xiaozhong, 正山小种 / Lapsang Souchong)
Location: Masu Village 麻粟村, Tongmu Guan 桐木关, Wuyishan
Altitude: Around 1300m
Harvest Date: May 12th, 2025
Cultivar: Cai Cha 菜茶 (Qun Ti Zhong 群体种)
Age of Tea Trees: Over 100 years
Picking Standard: Two tender leaves

The Story of This Tea

Chigan is a special grade of Zhengshan Xiaozhong, sitting between Jin Jun Mei and traditional Lapsang Souchong. While Jin Jun Mei is made from only single buds, and Zhengshan Xiaozhong from mature leaves, Chigan is crafted from leaves just beyond the bud stage — tender leaves not yet fully opened.

This 2025 harvest comes from Masu Village, one of the highest villages in Tongmu Guan at 1300 meters, where old Cai Cha bushes grow wild among bamboo forests. The unique ecology imparts the tea with a refined nectar fragrance, bamboo leaf freshness, and a soft woody undertone. Unlike many black teas, Chigan combines delicate sweetness with a viscous mouthfeel, offering both elegance and richness.

Aroma and Flavour

• Aroma: Nectar fragrance with bamboo leaf freshness and a touch of woody depth

• Flavour: Naturally sweet, layered, and fuller than most Jin Jun Mei on the market

• Texture: Viscous, smooth, and refined — rare among black teas

• Aftertaste: Lingering sweetness with cooling mountain yun

• Liquor: Clear golden-red, bright and lively

Compared with Masu Old Bush Zhengshan Xiaozhong, the woody note here is lighter, allowing the nectar-like sweetness to dominate.

Brewing Guidelines

Gong Fu Style

• Teaware: Porcelain gaiwan or zhuni teapot (朱泥壶)

• Ratio: 4g per 100–110ml water

• Water: 95–100°C spring water

• Infusions: Rinse once, then brew 6–8 infusions, gradually extending time

Western Style

• Teaware: Porcelain or glass teapot

• Ratio: 3–4g per 250ml water

• Water: 90–95°C

• Steeping: 2–3 minutes first infusion, resteep 2–3 times

Why Choose This Tea

• Unique grade: A special picking standard between Jin Jun Mei and Zhengshan Xiaozhong

• Ancient bushes: Harvested from over 100-year-old Cai Cha trees in Masu Village

• Rare qualities: Combines delicate nectar sweetness with a viscous texture

• Authentic Tongmu origin: High-altitude terroir surrounded by pristine bamboo forests

Chigan is a refined and rare grade of Lapsang Souchong that captures both delicacy and richness. It is a tea to savour slowly, offering nourishment for both body and mind.