ABOUT
Song Zhong Dan Cong is a rare single-tree wulong tea produced in the Wudong Mountains in Chaozhou, Guangdong province, China. It originates from the historic Song Zhong lineage, associated with some of the oldest and most valued tea trees in the region. This tea reflects both the genetic heritage and the exceptional quality of ancient plant material.
This particular tea is made from a single tea tree approximately 200 years old, offering a highly concentrated and stable leaf composition. The production is carried out by a small family operation, where every stage is guided by a tea master with over 90 years of experience. This level of craftsmanship ensures precision, continuity, and a deep understanding of the material.
The production follows traditional Dan Cong methods, including withering, controlled oxidation, fixation, rolling, and drying, often combined with careful roasting. The result is a tea that expresses both the depth of ancient tree material and the refinement of artisanal processing. Song Zhong Dan Cong is valued for its clarity, smooth texture, and a complex aromatic profile shaped by both origin and mastery.
TERROIR
Song Zhong Dan Cong is cultivated at elevations typically exceeding 1,000 meters. This high-mountain environment is characterized by a humid subtropical climate, frequent mist, and strong day–night temperature variation. These conditions slow leaf development and allow for a gradual accumulation of aromatic compounds, contributing to both intensity and clarity in the final tea.
The terrain consists of steep, rocky slopes with well-drained soils rich in minerals and organic matter. Tea trees grow in challenging conditions, developing deep root systems that penetrate the mountain substrate. This contributes to the density, resilience, and concentration of the leaf material, particularly important for old trees. Microclimate plays a defining role, with diffused sunlight, cloud cover, and consistent air movement regulating plant metabolism. This results in a balanced composition of amino acids and polyphenols, supporting both sweetness and structural depth. Compared to lower elevations, the leaves develop more slowly, producing a more refined and stable raw material.
Another important aspect is the interaction between terroir and tree age. The presence of a 200-year-old single tree enhances both aromatic complexity and stability, while the highland environment preserves purity and precision. This integration ensures that the final tea expresses both the distinctive character of Wudong terroir and the depth associated with ancient tea trees.
ORGANOLEPTICS
The dry leaf is long and tightly twisted, showing deep brown to dark charcoal tones with a subtle sheen from roasting. The aroma of the dry leaves is intense and refined, with notes of honey, ripe fruit, orchid, and a gentle spicy nuance. In a preheated teapot, the leaves release a powerful and layered aromatic profile from the first infusion, where floral and honeyed tones are supported by soft fruit sweetness and a clear mineral depth. As the infusion develops, the aroma becomes more integrated, combining dried fruit, light spice, and a smooth, slightly woody character.
The aroma of the liquor is rich and complex, with a harmonious combination of floral, fruity, and honeyed notes. The taste is smooth and structured, with a medium to full body and a refined, slightly viscous texture. A pronounced natural sweetness forms the core of the profile, supported by notes of ripe fruit, light spice, and a mild, well-integrated astringency that adds definition. The single-tree origin is reflected in the depth, clarity, and persistence of the flavor. The aftertaste is long and dynamic, with a returning sweetness and a subtle cooling sensation. In the empty cup after drinking, an intense floral and sweet aroma remains, leaving a powerful and memorable final impression.