The Smoke Journal
Notes from the fire.
Tasting notes, brewing tips, and straight-talking explainers on Lapsang Souchong and the world of smoked tea.
Explainer
Lapsang Souchong Health Benefits: What the Research Actually Says
Lapsang Souchong is a true black tea, so it brings the same antioxidants, L-theanine and gentle caffeine lift as other black teas — plus a few quirks worth knowing.
How-to
Can You Drink Lapsang Souchong With Milk?
Yes — a splash of milk softens the smoke and brings the malt forward. Here is when to add it, how much to use, and when to drink it black instead.
Tasting notes
What Does Lapsang Souchong Taste Like?
Lapsang Souchong tastes like a campfire in a cup — pinewood smoke up front, smooth malt and oak underneath, with no bitterness when brewed correctly.
Buyer's guide
How to Choose the Best Lapsang Souchong: A Buyer's Guide
Most Lapsang Souchong on UK shelves is flavoured tea bag dust. Here are the four things to look for so you end up with the real, naturally smoked thing.
Explainer
Is Lapsang Souchong Banned in the UK?
Short answer: no. Lapsang Souchong is not banned in the UK. Here is where the rumour came from, what actually happened, and what you can buy today.
History
The History of Lapsang Souchong: How the World's First Black Tea Was Born
Legend says Lapsang Souchong was invented by accident in 17th-century Fujian when soldiers occupied a tea factory. Here is the story, and what is actually true.
Explainer
Does Lapsang Souchong Have Caffeine?
Yes — Lapsang Souchong is a black tea, so it contains caffeine. A typical cup has roughly 40–60 mg, less than coffee but enough for a steady lift.
Recipes
Cooking With Lapsang Souchong: 6 Ways to Use Smoked Tea in the Kitchen
Lapsang Souchong is one of the most useful ingredients in a kitchen cupboard — instant smoke flavour with no grill required. Six ways to actually use it.
How-to
How to Brew Lapsang Souchong (The Right Way)
One teaspoon per cup, freshly boiled water at 95–100°C, 3–5 minutes. Use loose leaf, not bags. Drink it black, with milk, or iced. The full method.
Compare
Lapsang Souchong vs Russian Caravan: What is the Difference?
Lapsang Souchong is a single smoked black tea from Fujian. Russian Caravan is a blend that often includes Lapsang, plus Keemun and Assam. Here is how to choose.