In the prestigious family of Phoenix Dancong Oolongs, some cultivars are famous for their vibrant, high-pitched aromas. But there is another class of Dancong, revered not just for its fragrance, but for its profound history and deep, resonant character. At the pinnacle of this class stands Song Zhong Dancong. This is a guide to a true ancient oolong, a tea with roots stretching back nearly a thousand years.
Discover Song Zhong: The Oolong with Song Dynasty Roots
To drink Song Zhong Dancong is to sip liquid history. It is considered one of the most aristocratic and respected varieties of Phoenix Oolong Tea. Its story is one of survival, lineage, and a flavor profile that speaks of ancient wisdom. This guide will explore the history behind its imperial name, its unique taste, and why it is considered a treasure by collectors and connoisseurs.
What Does “Song Zhong” Mean? A Name from History
The name itself is the key to understanding this tea’s immense prestige. What does Song Zhong mean?
“Song” (宋): A Nod to the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD)
The character “Song” refers to the Song Dynasty, a golden age for Chinese culture and tea. Legend states that the original mother tree of this cultivar was first discovered and cultivated during this period, after the last Song Emperor fled to the Phoenix Mountains.
“Zhong” (种): Meaning Cultivar, Variety, or Seed
The character “Zhong” means species, cultivar, or variety. When put together, “Song Zhong” translates to “Song Cultivar” or “Song Variety.” It signifies that all true Song Zhong teas are direct descendants of that single, ancient mother tree, making it one of the oldest dancong cultivar lineages.
The Flavor Profile: What Does Song Zhong Dancong Taste Like?
While its history is impressive, the song zhong oolong taste is what makes it truly unforgettable. It is a tea of depth and complexity rather than a singular, forward aroma.
A Deep, Elegant, and Mellow Aroma
Unlike the high-pitched fragrances of some other Dancongs, Song Zhong’s aroma is deeper, more elegant, and mellow. It is often described as a complex floral scent, but with more warmth and subtlety.
Notes of Gardenia, Ginger, and Ripe Stone Fruit
Within that mellow aroma, you can find specific notes. A gentle, sweet gardenia fragrance is common, often accompanied by a hint of warming spice like ginger. As you continue to brew, notes of ripe stone fruits like peach and apricot may emerge.
The “Cong Yun” (Bush Rhyme): A Thick, Lingering Mouthfeel
The true signature of a great Song Zhong is its Cong Yun (丛韵), or “Bush Rhyme.” This is a powerful and complex mouthfeel. The tea liquor feels thick, viscous, and incredibly smooth, coating the throat and leaving a powerful, lingering aftertaste that resonates long after you’ve swallowed.
Why Song Zhong is a Collector’s Oolong
This rare phoenix dancong is highly sought after by collectors for several key reasons.
The Rarity of True Old-Grove Cultivars
The original mother tree still stands on Wudong Mountain, but true descendants from old groves are limited in number. The production of authentic, high-quality Song Zhong is very small, making it one of the rarest and most precious Dancongs available.
Its Storied History and “Imperial” Pedigree
The connection to the Song Dynasty gives this tea an unparalleled historical and cultural value. Drinking it is not just a sensory experience; it’s a connection to centuries of Chinese history. This “imperial” pedigree makes it a prized addition to any serious tea collection.
Brewing a Piece of History: Tips for Song Zhong
To do justice to this ancient oolong, a mindful brewing approach is required to unlock its full character.
Use a Yixing Teapot to Enhance Its Texture and Rhyme
A good Yixing teapot is the perfect partner for Song Zhong. The porous clay will enhance the tea’s thick, smooth texture and help to amplify the complex Cong Yun, making the mouthfeel even more satisfying.
Focus on a Stable, High Temperature to Unlock Its Depths
This is a robust oolong that requires high heat to fully express its deep character. Use water just off the boil (95-100°C / 205-212°F) and focus on consistent, quick infusions to coax out its layers of flavor and aroma.
More Than a Tea, It’s a Time Capsule**
Song Zhong Dancong is more than just a name or a flavor. It is a time capsule in a cup. It carries the legacy of ancient trees and imperial history, offering a deep, resonant, and complex experience that rewards patience and attention. It is a tea for moments of quiet contemplation, a true taste of history.
To drink Song Zhong is to taste history itself. Are you ready to experience a tea with a legacy nearly a thousand years old? .
FAQ: Your Song Zhong Dancong Questions Answered
Is every tea named Song Zhong from the original Song Dynasty tree?
No. This is a common misconception. Teas named Song Zhong Dancong are descendants of the original mother tree, cultivated through grafting or cuttings to preserve its unique genetic profile. The original tree is a protected cultural treasure and is no longer harvested.
How does Song Zhong’s flavor compare to Ba Xian (Eight Immortals)?
While both are complex, high-end Dancongs, their character is different. Ba Xian often has a more forward, powerful, and sometimes spicier aroma. Song Zhong’s aroma is typically more mellow, deep, and elegant, with its primary strength lying in its profound Cong Yun (mouthfeel and aftertaste).
Is Song Zhong a good candidate for aging?
Yes. A well-processed Song Zhong with a light-to-medium roast can age beautifully. Over a few years, the roast will mellow, and the tea’s fruity notes and deep rhyme will become even more integrated and pronounced, making it an excellent candidate for aging.
Where can I buy authentic, high-quality Song Zhong oolong?
You must buy Song Zhong from a trusted vendor who specializes in high-end Phoenix Oolongs and can provide information about its origin and harvest. At , we source our ancient oolong
