Old Bush Lapsang Souchong 老枞小种 (2025)

Tea Profile

Type: Black Tea (Unsmoked Lapsang Souchong, Zhengshan Xiaozhong)
Location: Guaduan Village 挂墩, Tongmuguan, Wuyishan
Altitude: 1200–1400m
Harvest Date: May 18th, 2025
Cultivar: Wuyi Cai Cha 武夷菜茶 (Heirloom Qun Ti Zhong)
Age of Tea Bushes: Over 100 years

The Story of This Tea

This old bush Lapsang Souchong is made from wild Cai Cha tea trees growing deep within the Wuyishan National Nature Reserve. At 1200–1400 meters, these ancient bushes are more than a century old, their roots and trunks covered in moss that reflects their long history and pristine environment.

Though the trees are tall and robust, their yield is very low, making each harvest small and precious. The tea is plucked from bushes growing on untouched mountain slopes, where biodiversity, clean air, and mineral-rich soils nurture a unique expression of Lapsang Souchong.

Aroma and Flavour

The dry leaves are large and strip-shaped, similar in appearance to Yancha. The liquor is golden and bright, carrying a refreshing mountain fragrance.

• Aroma: A layered combination of fruit, honey, flowers, and sweet potato, balanced with high mountain freshness

• Flavour: Smooth, clean, and naturally sweet, with a long, refreshing aftertaste

• Mouthfeel: Sweetness lingers in the throat, leaving a cooling sensation reminiscent of pristine forest air

• Endurance: Retains depth for 8 infusions and can be brewed over 10 times without losing quality

This tea captures the essence of untouched high mountains, offering both clarity and a calm energy in the cup.

Brewing Guidelines

Gong Fu Style

• Teaware: Porcelain gaiwan or glass pot

• Ratio: 6–7g per 100ml water

• Water: 95–100°C spring water

• Infusions: Rinse once, then brew 8–10 infusions, extending steeping time gradually

Western Style

• Teaware: Porcelain or glass teapot

• Ratio: 3–4g per 250ml water

• Water: 95–100°C

• Steeping: 3–4 minutes for the first infusion, resteep 2–3 times

Why Choose This Tea

• Ancient origin: Harvested from wild Cai Cha bushes over 100 years old

• Protected terroir: Grown within the Wuyishan National Nature Reserve at 1200–1400m

• High mountain character: Slow growth develops complexity, sweetness, and endurance

• Exceptional longevity: Maintains aroma and flavour across more than 10 infusions

This Old Bush Lapsang Souchong is a rare and precious black tea, prized for its wild origin, rich complexity, and refreshing mountain character. A must-have for collectors and serious Wuyi tea lovers.