1919 LAPSANG ZHIVAGO Ingredients From: China
Region: Fujian Province–Xingchun region
Grade: Lux #1 Lapsang Souchong
Manufacture Type: Orthodox (Traditional leafy), Small batch crafted.
Cup Characteristics: A delicious premium Lapsang with a smoky character amid the undertones of pine and earthiness.
Ingredients: Black tea Dr. Zhivago. Most of us are familiar with the Hollywood version of this sweeping Russian tale starring Omar Sharif. The story however was originally penned in novel form by Boris Pasternak, a Russian writer who wrote during the days of the U.S.S.R. The story centers around one Doctor Yurii Andreievich Zhivago who goes to work as a medic in 1919 during theRussian Revolution and Civil War. Boris Pasternak won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1958 for the work but was forced to turn down the honor by the Soviet government. This tea is named in honor of Pasternak, a lifelong tea lover, by naming this wonderful version of Lapsang Souchong after his seminal work. There are two reasons this premium lapsang was named for Boris Pasternak. The first is that it was Pasternak's favorite. The second is that Lapsang Souchong has long been associated with tea drinking in Russia. This tea with its smoky aroma evokes the mystery of the far East and is commonly brewed in samovars from Vladivostok to St. Petersburg. Lapsang Souchong is produced in Fujian province in China. The process begins with freshly picked tea that is withered over pine or cedar fires, pan-fired, and then rolled by hand. Once rolled, the leaves are pressed into wooden barrels and covered with cloth and allowed to ferment until they begin to emit a pleasant aroma. Once fermented, the leaves are rolled again into tight strips and then placed in bamboo baskets which are hung over burning pine boughs. As the leaves dry, they further develop their smoky flavor. The Lapsang process results in a tea with leaves that are thick, black, and glossy. The result in a very strong, assertive cup -just the type of tea favored by the Russians. To the uninitiated, the intensely smoky taste of Lapsang Souchong may be an acquired taste in the same way that Scotch or fine cigars are. This tea can be enjoyed on its own although some may prefer it with a dash of milk and sugar to help expand the unique smoky flavor profile. Brewing Instructions:
Bring filtered or freshly drawn cold water to a rolling boil. Place 1 slightly heaping teaspoon of loose tea for each 8 ounces of water in the teapot or cup and pour in the boiling water. Cover and let steep for 3-7 minutes according to taste (the longer the steeping time the stronger the tea). Add milk and sugar to taste if desired.
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