Fujian Red Teas

I'm a big fan of the Oolong teas of the Fujian province of southeast China, but only an occasional drinker of the red (black) teas of this region.  Hence, my knowledge of Fujian reds is modest at best.  This region is generally credited with the creation of the first red tea exported to the West, and modern examples of this original tea are often marketed as Bohea tea.  Today, it's well-known for several red teas, including: the Pan Yang, Zheng He (Ching Wo), and Bai Lin congou teas; the various smoked teas including Zheng Shan Xiou Zhong and lesser Lapsang Souchong variations; the Golden Monkey; and the very expensive and rare Precious Eyebrow teas.  The well-known red teas are all produced in the northern (Min Bei) portion of the province, but very good examples of red tea are also produced in the southern (Min Nan) area.  While Fujian red teas are consumed by the domestic (Chinese) market, the majority of production is exported. 

The next few posts will cover some moderately-priced Fujian red teas from Upton Tea Imports and The Strand Tea Company.