Compared to Pu'er Tea, Black Tea is less variable in flavor. For newcomers to the world of tea, how should they choose among different types and grades of black teas? The rule that you get what you pay for doesn't always hold true. For instance, when drinking Zhengshan Xiaozhong, one might find that the cheaper varieties are sweeter than the more expensive ones. In the case of Qimen, despite its high price, it may not be as fragrant as legend suggests. How can these differences be distinguished? Today, we will discuss some of the most prominent black teas: Zhengshan Xiaozhong, Yunnan Black, and Qimen.
“Sweet Aroma” of Xiaozhong
Xiaozhong is the sweetest and most fragrant, with a substantial body. It's also an excellent choice for beginners. Judging by price, the cheaper varieties tend to be heavier and more complex in taste, while the more expensive ones are smoother and softer. Newcomers may not immediately appreciate this difference, as they often prefer the direct sweetness of the cheaper Xiaozhong.
If you haven't tried Zhengshan Xiaozhong, you're probably not yet initiated into the world of tea. This group includes many who are just starting or have recently started their journey. They may find the strong smoky character of Zhengshan Xiaozhong difficult to accept. An upgraded version that omits the Smoking process has been developed, and many people detect a Longan flavor in Zhengshan Xiaozhong. However, if you notice a potato-like aroma, take note—it is a significant distinction between authentic Zhengshan Xiaozhong and imitations, as the former does not contain such a scent.
“Rich and Robust” Yunnan Black
Yunnan Black is not as sweet as Xiaozhong but is rich and robust, with a certain resilience. Some start with Yunnan Black and become so enamored with its intensity that they struggle to enjoy other black teas. Their affection for Yunnan Black differs from those transitioning from Xiaozhong.
The overall style of Yunnan Black is characterized by a stronger sense of thickness, a distinctive feature of large-leaf teas. Additionally, a slightly acidic taste is normal. High-quality Yunnan Black emits a signature honey fragrance, accompanied by a sweet floral and fruity aroma. Its color is a vivid orange-red, truly rich and inviting.
A tea connoisseur once said, “Tasting Yunnan Black is like experiencing the women of Yunnan—passionate, unrestrained, and enduring, with a rich and mellow fragrance that is both pleasing and generous. Once tasted, it is never forgotten, for one never wants to forget!”
“True Flavor” of Qimen
The characteristics of Qimen are quite distinct, with a good aroma, a substantial mouthfeel, and a true tea flavor. However, the appeal doesn't come as quickly as with Xiaozhong and Yunnan Black. At first, it might seem rather ordinary. Therefore, newcomers should not rush to try it, as they might not appreciate it and end up with a negative impression.
Speaking of Qimen, one must mention the “Qimen fragrance.” It is a subtle aroma that lingers and lasts. Unlike teas whose scents can be detected from a distance, the Qimen fragrance requires lifting the cup to the nose. Yet, when the cup is lifted, many black teas lack this aroma, or even if they do possess a hint of it, it is not as pleasant as Qimen's.
In terms of “substantial mouthfeel,” when compared, Yunnan Black is renowned for its intensity, but when drunk alongside Qimen, it might appear bland, and it becomes challenging to recapture that intense sensation later on. The concept of “true tea flavor” is difficult to explain; first, there is no complexity of flavors in the substantial mouthfeel of Qimen, and second, the tea flavor is concentrated and does not dissipate. The best way to enjoy Qimen black tea is without Sugar or milk, sipping it plain. If milk is added, it takes on a unique pale pink hue, which is also distinctive.