Table of Contents:

• Xiao Zhong Hong Cha (Souchong Black Tea)
• Gong Fu Black Tea
• Broken Black Tea
• Conclusion

An Overview of Souchong Black Tea

Souchong black tea is a type of black tea that originated in China and is known for its unique smoky flavor. It is one of the oldest black teas in the world and has a rich history. There are different types of Souchong black tea, each with its own characteristics and production methods. In this article, we will explore the types of Souchong black tea and provide a guide to understanding this beloved tea variety.

Xiao Zhong Hong Cha (Souchong Black Tea)

Xiao Zhong Hong Cha, also known as Souchong Black Tea, is the first black tea in the world. It originated from the Tong Muguan area in Wuyishan City, Fujian Province, China. Souchong black tea is further classified into two types based on the specific geographical area where it is harvested:

1. Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong (Lapsang Souchong): This type of Souchong black tea is produced in the Tong Muguan area of Xing Cun village. It is known for its distinctive smoky flavor, which is achieved through the traditional process of slowly smoking the tea leaves over natural pine wood.
2. Wai Shan Xiao Zhong (Waishan Souchong): This type of Souchong black tea is produced in various counties in Fujian, including Shaowu, Guangze, Zhenghe, Tanyang, Beiling, Pingnan, and Gutian. It is of lower grade compared to Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong and is sometimes referred to as artificial Souchong.
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Gong Fu Black Tea

Gong Fu Black Tea is a unique Chinese tea that requires meticulous preparation and fine processing techniques. It is known for its high-quality raw materials and meticulous processing, resulting in a tea with a rich and profound character. Gong Fu Black Tea is further classified based on the tea plant species and the region of production. Some famous varieties include:

• Qihong Gongfu (Keemun): Produced in Anhui Province, this variety includes Fuliang Gong Fu and Huos Han Gong Fu.
• Dianhong Gongfu (Golden Buds): Produced in Yunnan Province, this variety is characterized by its golden buds and has a distinct flavor.
• Minhong Gongfu: Produced in Fujian Province, this variety includes Zhenghe Gong Fu, Tanyang Gong Fu, and Bailin Gong Fu.
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Gong Fu Black Tea varies in quality depending on the origin and tea plant species used.

Broken Black Tea

Broken Black Tea refers to tea leaves that are intentionally fractured or granulated during processing. It is widely popular and commonly traded, constituting a significant portion of worldwide tea exports. Broken Black Tea is classified based on the size and shape of the tea leaves, including Leaf Tea, Broken Tea, Fanning, and Dust Tea.

• Leaf Tea: This type of broken black tea consists of larger tea leaves that exhibit a variety of shapes and sizes. It is known for its high quality and does not contain broken or powdered leaves.
• Broken Tea: Broken black tea consists of smaller tea leaves that are granular and long-grained. It is commonly used for easy brewing and is often used as an ingredient in tea bags.
• Fanning: Fanning tea takes the form of flakes with a light texture and is selected from crushed tea leaves.
• Dust Tea: Dust tea has a sandy appearance and consists of tiny bits of leaf that are typically used in standard tea bags.
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Conclusion

Souchong black tea is a beloved variety of black tea known for its unique smoky flavor. There are different types of Souchong black tea, including Xiao Zhong Hong Cha, Gong Fu Black Tea, and Broken Black Tea. Each type has its own characteristics and production methods. Whether you prefer the rich smokiness of Souchong black tea or the refined flavors of Gong Fu black tea, there is a Souchong black tea variety to suit every taste