Lapsang Souchong

Caffeine Content: High

Ingredients: Smoked black tea

Flavor Profile: Smoky - Bold - Complex

Brewing Instructions: 

Amount: 1-2 teaspoons per 8oz

Water Temperature: 200-212°

Steep Time: 4-5 minutes

Lapsang Souchong is a bold and smoky black tea with a rich history and an unmistakable aroma. Originally from the Mount Wuyi region in Fujian, China, this tea is crafted using a unique drying process that imparts deep, woodsy notes of pine smoke. With its intense, campfire-like scent and robust flavor, Lapsang Souchong stands apart as one of the most distinctive black teas in the world.

Key Characteristics:

Traditional Craftsmanship:

• Origin: Lapsang Souchong hails from the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian, a region renowned for its high-quality black teas.
• Unique Processing: The tea leaves are withered over pine or cedar fires, pan-fired, rolled, and oxidized before being dried in bamboo baskets over burning pinewood.
• Historical Significance: This tea’s smoky drying process is believed to have originated during the Qing Dynasty when tea producers had to quickly dry their leaves after soldiers disrupted their traditional processing schedule. The unexpected method led to the birth of an entirely new style of tea.

Flavor Profile:

• Smoky & Bold: The dominant flavor is an intense smokiness, reminiscent of a campfire or charred wood.
• Rich & Earthy: Beneath the smoke, there are underlying notes of malt, pine resin, and a subtle sweetness.
• Smooth Finish: While robust, Lapsang Souchong has a clean, slightly sweet finish that balances its boldness.

Brewing Tips:

• Water Temperature: 200-212°F (93-100°C) – Use near-boiling water to fully extract the deep, smoky character.
• Steeping Time: 3-5 minutes – A shorter steeping time highlights the tea’s complexity, while a longer brew intensifies its smokiness.
• Multiple Infusions: This tea can often be steeped multiple times, with each infusion revealing new layers of depth.

Health Benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Like all black teas, Lapsang Souchong contains polyphenols that support overall wellness.
• Metabolism Boost: The combination of caffeine and antioxidants may help enhance energy and metabolic function.
• Digestive Support: Its warming nature and smooth character make it a great choice after a meal.

Serving Suggestions:

• Plain & Traditional: Enjoy it straight to appreciate its full, smoky complexity.
• With Milk & Sweetener: A splash of milk and a touch of honey can soften its boldness while enhancing its natural sweetness.
• Culinary Uses: Lapsang Souchong’s smoky profile makes it a great ingredient in cocktails, marinades, or even smoked tea-infused broths.

Why Lapsang Souchong?

This tea is perfect for those who enjoy strong, smoky flavors and are looking for something beyond the usual black tea experience. Whether you appreciate its deep historical roots, its powerful aroma, or its warming, full-bodied character, Lapsang Souchong is a one-of-a-kind tea that delivers an unforgettable cup every time.