In the world of tea, few varieties offer as striking a contrast as Jin Jun Mei and Lapsang Souchong. Both teas originate from the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian Province, China, but their flavors, processing methods, and cultural significance could not be more different. This article delves into the nuances of these two remarkable teas, providing insights into their distinct characteristics and why they appeal to different palates.

Lapsang Souchong: The Original Smoked Tea

Lapsang Souchong Tea is perhaps the most distinctive type of black tea in the world, known for its bold, smoky flavor. This tea is traditionally smoked over pinewood fires, a process that imparts a deep, rich smokiness reminiscent of a campfire. The leaves used for Lapsang Souchong are generally larger and less tender than those selected for finer teas, contributing to its robust and hearty flavor profile.
The history of Lapsang Souchong is as rich as its taste. It is considered the original black tea, first developed during the Qing Dynasty when the passage of armies delayed the annual drying of the tea leaves. To hasten the drying process and prevent spoilage, the tea was dried over fires made from local pines. This innovation not only saved the tea crop but also gave birth to a new tea variety. Today, Lapsang Souchong is celebrated for its assertive flavor and is often enjoyed by those who appreciate a strong, smoky beverage.

Jin Jun Mei: A Refined Golden Black Tea

Jin Jun Mei Tea , on the other hand, represents the pinnacle of sophistication in Chinese black teas. This tea is made exclusively from the tender buds picked in early spring before Qingming festival. These buds are fully covered in fine golden hairs, which give the tea its name, Jin Jun Mei, meaning "Golden Beautiful Eyebrow." Jin Jun Mei is processed through a meticulous method of withering, rolling, fermentation, and drying which helps develop its complex flavor profile.
Unlike Lapsang Souchong, Jin Jun Mei offers a delicate balance of sweetness and maltiness with subtle undertones of fruit and flowers. It lacks the smokiness of Lapsang Souchong, presenting instead a rich, smooth taste with a lingering sweet aftertaste. This tea is highly prized not only for its flavor but also for its aesthetic appeal, with the fine golden tips creating a visually stunning brew.

Comparative Tasting Notes

When tasted side by side, the differences between Lapsang Souchong and Jin Jun Mei are immediately apparent. Lapsang Souchong's robust smokiness contrasts sharply with Jin Jun Mei’s delicate floral and fruity notes. The texture of Lapsang Souchong can be somewhat coarse, while Jin Jun Mei provides a smoother, more refined mouthfeel.
Brewing Techniques
The brewing of these teas also differs. For Lapsang Souchong, boiling water is necessary to fully extract the flavors from the larger, tougher leaves. A brewing time of about 4-5 minutes is recommended. In contrast, Jin Jun Mei should be brewed with water just off the boil (around 90°C or 194°F) and steeped for 2-3 minutes to avoid overpowering its subtle flavors.

Cultural and Culinary Pairings

Culturally, Lapsang Souchong has often been associated with a rugged, almost masculine aesthetic, traditionally enjoyed in the colder months or as a morning tea to awaken the senses. It pairs well with salty and spicy foods. Jin Jun Mei, with its elegant and refined profile, is suited for more delicate pairings such as pastries or afternoon tea settings, where its nuances can be fully appreciated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jin Jun Mei and Lapsang Souchong offer tea lovers a fascinating study in contrasts. From the smoky, intense flavors of Lapsang Souchong to the delicate, sweet nuances of Jin Jun Mei, these teas not only reflect the diversity of Chinese black teas but also cater to a wide range of preferences, making them beloved staples in the world of tea.