Lao Cong Lei Kou Chai Dancong

Information

Origine: Chao Zhou, Guang Dong Province
Harvesting area : Feng Huang Town, Feng Xi Village, Shen Ya ethnic village
Plantation altitude: ~800 meters above sea level
Harvesting: Spring 2024
Average tree age: 100 yo
Harvesting: Spring 2024
Net weight: 50gr

 

Lei Kou Chai is a rare variety of Dancong tea. According to the story behind its name, the mother tree of Lei Kou Chai once stood at a place called Wu Dong Li Zai Ping Da Shan Jiao, and it was struck by a lightning bolt. Remarkably, the tree did not die immediately, but slowly withered away. Before it completely died, local tea farmers used asexual propagation to clone the tree, which gave rise to the Lei Kou Chai variety. The name "Lei Kou Chai" has specific meanings: "Lei" refers to the thunderbolt (天雷), "Kou" means "strike" in the Chaozhou dialect, and "Chai" refers to the dead wood that is left after the tree has withered. Because of this, Lei Kou Chai is also known by another name, Pi Ding Xiang (霹顶香), which translates to "Thunder Top Aroma," referring to the lightning strike and the strong, distinctive fragrance of the tea.

This rare and stunning Lao Cong Lei Kou Chai captivates the senses from the first moment. Its fragrance is pure, dominated by a delicate, almost creamy floral aroma that immediately evokes a sense of indulgence. As the tea unfolds, the floral notes intensify, with the second brew revealing a smoother, more refined liquor that leaves a refreshing sensation on the palate. The tea is full-bodied and round, with a mild sweetness that perfectly complements its structure.
Equally impressive is the tea’s complex bouquet of aromas, inviting a graceful journey of flavors. Notes of wheat sugar, lemon leaves, and orange blossom are woven into a floral layer reminiscent of hawthorn. The sensation is one of freshness and delicacy, with the flavor traveling smoothly from the front of the palate to the back, where it finishes with a lingering, satisfying hui gan. The subtle sweetness of the wheat sugar enhances the experience, creating a beautifully balanced profile. The complexity, texture, and finesse of this tea are reminiscent of a finely aged white Burgundy—an experience of refined elegance for both novice and seasonned dancong oolong tea drinker.

Suggestions

Yixing pairing: Pin Zi Ni, Chao Zhou teapot, Qing Shui Ni
Water temperature: 90C
Storage: Drink now, store cool and dry