Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong · Wuyishan Red Tea

Product Information

• Net Weight: 100g (loose leaf)

• Gift: Comes with a complimentary tea scoop for easy brewing

The Origin of All Red Teas

Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong, also known as Xiao Zhong Red Tea, is the ancestor of all red teas in the world.

• Origin: Tongmu Village, Wuyishan, Fujian, China

• History: Its prototype appeared in the late Ming Dynasty (17th century). By the mid-Qing Dynasty, it had become one of the most sought-after Chinese exports, rivaling porcelain, and beloved by European and American aristocracy.

• Legacy: From Assam and Darjeeling to Sri Lanka and Ceylon, all modern red teas trace their roots back to Wuyishan.

Red Tea vs. Black Tea

In China, we call it “Hong Cha” (Red Tea), named after the golden-red infusion in the cup.
In the West, however, it became known as Black Tea. Why?
Because the first teas exported to Europe were smoked Xiao Zhong Red Teas, processed with local pinewood smoke (Pinus massoniana). Their dark, almost black leaves inspired Westerners to call it Black Tea.

So when you see Red Tea here, it is the authentic Chinese term, reflecting the true character of the tea.

Varieties of Xiao Zhong

• Smoked Xiao Zhong: Dried over burning pinewood, releasing a rich pine-smoke aroma layered with fruity sweetness.

• Unsmoked Xiao Zhong: No smoke, highlighting natural notes of longan fruit and a gentle honey-like sweetness.

Flavor & Aroma

• Aroma: Fruity longan fragrance, with subtle floral undertones

• Taste: Smooth, naturally sweet, with a lingering finish

• Liquor: Clear golden-red, warming and mellow

Brewing Guide

• Teaware: Gaiwan or small teapot recommended

• Tea-to-water ratio: 1g : 30ml

• Water Temperature: ~90°C (194°F)

• Steeping: Multiple infusions, each revealing new layers of sweetness

Why Choose Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong?

✨ The world’s first red tea, with centuries of history
✨ Crafted in its birthplace—Tongmu Village, Wuyishan
✨ Naturally sweet, with the unique aroma of longan fruit
✨ A heritage tea once cherished by European nobility

👉 One tin, 100g, with a complimentary tea scoop—bringing you the authentic taste of the world’s very first red tea.