Lapsang Souchong

Lapsang Souchong is a great divider. A love it or hate it, Marmite of the tea world. It has a very distinct flavour and aroma, which makes it very easy to identify but will make some sniff the air and others hold their nose. The distinguishing feature is the smokiness.

These teas are a speciality of the Fujian Province. Souchong means sub-variety and is a reference to the type of tea bush that grows in the Wuyi mountains in this province. The distinct flavour and smell are acquired by smoking the tea over pinewood. It has a true campfire aroma but with notes of whiskey and resin and even incense. The leaves are intensely black in colour and the liquid it produces is red/ orange like a rich marmalade.

There has been a question as to whether this tea is bad for your health due to carcinogenic properties. The truth is there is a very, very small element of this but you would have to drink a huge amount for it to be anywhere close to doing you harm. There are definitely more benefits than hazards to health, so if you are a lover of this tea, keep calm and carry on.