Lapsang Souchong is one of those teas that makes an entrance. Its aroma alone — think campfire, pinewood, charred whisky barrels, Lisbon's streets on a crisp winter night — is enough to turn heads or spark memories. Love it or not, this bold black tea from China’s Wuyi mountains is instantly recognisable, unapologetically smoky, and steeped in tradition.
But beyond its unmistakable flavour, Lapsang Souchong also comes with a few hidden benefits that are worth raising your teacup to — especially if you like your tea strong and satisfying.
What Does Lapsang Souchong Taste Like?
Lapsang Souchong is a black tea that’s been smoke-dried over pinewood fires. This gives it a distinctive profile that's often described as:
- Smoky and savoury – like a fireplace or BBQ embers
- Piney and resinous – with hints of forest and bark
- Bold and full-bodied – smooth but definitely not shy
- Lingering warmth – with a dry, slightly peppery finish
If you enjoy whisky, peated scotch, smoked paprika, or even lapsang-infused cocktails, you’re likely to fall in love with this tea. It’s also brilliant for pairing with savoury foods or sipping slowly in cold weather.
Science-Backed Benefits of Black Tea
While the smoky flavour tends to steal the show, the black tea base underneath has its own story — and a scientific one at that. According to a 2019 study, black teas like Lapsang Souchong contain a group of compounds called theaflavins, which may support:
- Heart health: Theaflavins can help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and support vascular function.
- Antioxidant activity: These compounds protect cells from oxidative damage and inflammation.
- Metabolic support: Potential benefits for blood sugar balance and fat metabolism.
- Mental alertness: Contains moderate caffeine and L-theanine for calm but focused energy.
And while the smoke flavour may be divisive, the health benefits of its black tea base are surprisingly universal — making Lapsang both a bold treat and a functional brew.
How to Brew Lapsang Souchong
This tea is strong by nature, so it doesn’t need much help. Here's how to enjoy it at its best:
- Use 1 tsp per cup of water (roughly 250 ml)
- Brew with boiling water (95–100°C)
- Steep for 2–3 minutes – no need to overdo it
- Drink as is, or with a splash of milk or oat if you like a creamier finish
- Cold brew tip: Steep 1 tbsp in 1L of cold water overnight in the fridge — the result is smooth, smoky, and almost like iced whisky (minus the hangover). You can add a dash of milk for a smoky latte.
Is It for Everyone?
Lapsang Souchong isn’t exactly subtle — and that’s the charm. But it’s worth noting that the smoky aroma can be overpowering to some, especially if you're used to lighter teas or floral blends.
As with all black teas, it does contain caffeine (roughly half a cup of coffee's worth per cup), so it may not be ideal for late evenings or those sensitive to stimulants.
Final Thoughts
Rich, smoky, and steeped in story — Lapsang Souchong is tea for those who like a bit of theatre in their cup. It’s not everyone’s everyday sip, but for those who love it, there’s truly nothing else like it.
Fancy a smoky journey? Explore our Lapsang Souchong here and bring the campfire to your kettle.