Lao Cong Da Hong Pao

A Dahongpao of a rare kind and quality. It has not been produced from one of the traditional genuine Dahongpao varieties Beidou, Queshe and Qidan, but from hundred year old bushes (Laocong) of the original Wuyi variety Qizhong - which nowadays is being grown in Tongmuguan, where it is made into smoked black tea. Da Hong Pao is the most famous of the Si Da Ming Cong, the "Four Great Famous Varietals" of the Wuyi Rock Teas. Typical Dahongpao are very balanced, combining fruity aromas, the roast aromas of bread and mineral notes. The name "Dahongpao" translates as "Big red robe" and the name is explained by different legends, such as: the ill empress was healed with tea, whereupon the emperor clad the tea bushes in a big red robe.