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Chu Lingxi

Lao Cong (Old Bush) Black Tea

Lao Cong (Old Bush) Black Tea

$98.00 USD
$98.00 USD
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This is a rare and exquisite Lao Cong (old bush 老枞) black tea crafted from ancient tea trees over a hundred years old, thriving in the misty, high-altitude regions of Tongmu Village 桐木村, Wuyishan 武夷山. This tea offers a rich, deep flavor with notes of dried fruit, caramel, and a smooth, lingering sweetness that reflects the unique terroir and age of the tea trees. 

Basic Information

Origin: Tongmu Village, Wuyishan, China

Variety: Cai Cha (Local Variety)

Harvest: Spring 2023

Oxidation: Oxidized

Caffeine: High

Theanine: Medium

Catechin: Low

Tea Story

Black tea was first developed in Tongmu Village of Wuyishan in the sixteenth century. Tongmu Village is located in the north of Wuyishan National Nature Reserve, surrounded by high mountains and moistened by clouds and fogs. The steep slopes, abundant rainfall, and cool temperatures contribute to the complexity and depth of flavor found in Wuyi black teas. Owing to the high elevation and low temperatures, the only cultivar that can survive under these extreme conditions is the Caicha (local variety 菜茶). As the oldest cultivar of Wuyishan, this plant is regarded as an ancestor of many other varieties.

It is difficult to harvest Laocong tea leaves because the trees are very tall, requiring the use of stairs. The older the tea tree, the more mellow the taste of tea. The production of Laocong Black Tea involves a meticulous process that begins with the selection of leaves from mature trees. The leaves are then withered, rolled, oxidized, and fired. The firing level plays a crucial role in determining the tea's final flavor. Lightly fired teas often exhibit a more floral and fruity profile. The result is a tea with a unique combination of sweetness, smoothness, and a long-lasting aftertaste.

This Laocong Black Tea is crafted by the renowned tea maker Lingxi, and is a testament to her expertise and passion. Lingxi's deep understanding of the Wuyi Mountain terroir and her skillful hands have resulted in a harmonious and complex tea. The interplay of the tea's natural sweetness, the subtle mineral notes imparted by the mountain soil, and the gentle smokiness of the roasting create a truly unforgettable drinking experience. This tea is a rare find, offering tea enthusiasts a glimpse into the heart of Wuyishan tea culture.

Shipping & Returns

Chinese Tea Alliance releases responsibility for packages once they are checked in by the shipping service.

If you have questions about the location of your package please use the tracking information provided and direct inquiries to the shipping service of your choice. 

We offer free shipping with USPS for orders above $80.00 USD shipped to an address in the Continental USA (total does not include shipping and taxes).

All other orders ship for a flat rate of $7 (USPS).

We have an option for shipping with UPS for $12.

Packages are shipped out on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Please contact Customer Support immediately via contact@ChineseTeaAlliance.com

Refund/Return Policy: 

We stand by the quality of our products and want you to be happy with your purchase.  

We accept any return within 14 days from the receipt of your order for any reason. Teas have to be unopened, unused, and in original packing condition, unless there is a serious problem. Tea wares can be returned within 14 days of receipt if it is undamaged and unused. When returning, please let us know so we can look out for your package. Please be sure to include a note in your return package stating the reason for the return, your name, and order number, and if you would prefer a refund, exchange, or store credit.  

Please return to :

Returns - Chinese Tea Alliance

4315 Ashland, Terrace Apt A,

Davis, California 95618

Email: contact@ChineseTeaAlliance.com

Any return shipment costs will be paid by the customer. If an item is received damaged or is incorrectly shipped by us, we will be gladly replace it at no cost to you or issue a refund at your request. 

We will charge a 10% fee (based on the purchase price only) plus any charges incurred by us for items that are delivered on time but returned to us as a result of:

1.Refusal of the order by the customer,

2.Unable to be delivered,

3.Not collected by the customer at their local postal station or assigned pick-up location.

Refunds are contingent upon inspection of item(s) once received. Please contact us within 7 days if you intend to return any  item back to our store. Items returned to us after 7 days and without contacting us first will not be refunded. 

We appreciate your understanding that we are a small startup platform with limited resources, not a large corporation with unlimited budgets in all areas.

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Steeping Guidelines

Tea Ware: Gaiwan, Zisha, Mug
Water Temperature: 203°F (95°C)
Tea to Water Ratio: 1:25
Steeping Time: 5s/ 5s/ 5s/8s…

Tasting Notes (7/28/2024)

Aroma:

Top notes: floral, honey

Middle notes: fruity

Base notes: woody

Taste:

Sweet, mellow, smooth, clean, balanced, lingering aftertaste

Brewing Tips

- Pre-warm teaware before steeping
- Pour the tea liquor completely out after each brew
- Can be brewed multiple times
- Bottled water is recommended to ensure the delicate flavors