The Difference Between Lapsang Souchong and Jin Jun Mei_Tea News

Lapsang Souchong and Jin Jun Mei both belong to black tea and are produced in the Tongmu Guan area of Wuyi Mountain, Fujian. Lapsang Souchong is the originator of black tea, with a history of over 400 years, while Jin Jun Mei is a new product developed in 2005. Apart from their historical differences, what are the specific distinctions between these two teas?

[Difference 1] Raw Materials

Both Lapsang Souchong and Jin Jun Mei are made from leaves of the same tea plant. Jin Jun Mei uses tender buds as raw material, while Lapsang Souchong is made from one bud with one or two to three leaves.

[Difference 2] Processing Techniques

Jin Jun Mei inherits the traditional processing methods of Lapsang Souchong, but there are differences in smoking and fermentation. Jin Jun Mei is lightly smoked during withering, whereas Lapsang Souchong is smoked with pinewood during both withering and drying.

[Difference 3] Appearance

Lapsang Souchong has a tightly rolled, uniform appearance with a dark, oily sheen. Jin Jun Mei features slender, delicate leaves with golden tips, displaying a mix of gold, black, and brown hues.

[Difference 4] Flavor Profile

Generally, Jin Jun Mei has a lighter taste compared to Lapsang Souchong. It offers a delicate floral and honey aroma with a fresh, sweet aftertaste. Lapsang Souchong, due to its smoking process, has a pinewood or longan fragrance and a rich, robust flavor.

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