Question 1

What does Lapsang Souchong taste like?

Accepted Answer

Bold pinewood smoke balanced with smooth malt, oak and subtle resinous sweetness. Despite its smoky aroma, the tea is smooth and full-bodied with no bitterness when brewed correctly.

Question 2

What does 'Souchong' actually mean?

Accepted Answer

In the Fukienese dialect, souchong means a sub-variety of tea leaf. In practice, it points to the more mature leaves hand-picked from smaller-leaf bushes during peak harvest in early May. That maturity is what gives the tea its body and depth.

Question 3

How should I brew it?

Accepted Answer

Use 1 teaspoon of loose leaf per cup. Add freshly boiled, filtered water at 95–100°C. Steep for 3 minutes for clarity, 5 minutes for full campfire intensity. Drink it black or with a small splash of milk.

Question 4

Can I brew it as iced tea?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and it is exceptional cold. Brew at double strength (2 teaspoons per cup) for 5 minutes, then pour straight over a tall glass of ice. The smoke holds, the body cools, and the bitterness stays at zero. A slice of orange or a sprig of rosemary does not hurt.

Question 5

What's the story behind Lapsang Souchong?

Accepted Answer

It traces back to the Qing dynasty in Xingcun — Star Village — in the Wuyi Mountains. An army camped in a tea factory mid-harvest and halted production. To save the rapidly oxidising crop, the tea makers dried it fast over local pinewood fires. The accident became the method. Smoked tea has been made the same way ever since.

Question 6

Is the growing region protected?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Wuyi Mountains are a UNESCO-listed nature preserve — protected forest, mineral-rich soil and mist that hangs in the valleys most of the morning. The terroir is half the tea.

Question 7

Is this tea flavoured?

Accepted Answer

No. Our Lapsang Souchong is naturally smoked over real pinewood fires using traditional Fujian methods. There are no added flavourings, oils or smoke essences. The smoke is earned, not added.

Question 8

Where exactly is the tea from?

Accepted Answer

Grown and crafted in Xingcun village in the Wuyi Mountains of Fujian, China — the historic birthplace of Lapsang Souchong. The bushes sit at 3,500–5,000 feet, in cool mist and varied day-night temperatures. The land does half the work.

Question 9

Is it bitter?

Accepted Answer

No. Despite its bold smoky character, this tea is naturally smooth with a rounded mouthfeel and low tannins when brewed as recommended.

Question 10

How fresh is the tea?

Accepted Answer

After crafting in China, our tea is hand-packed in the UK in small batches. We use foil-lined, resealable packaging to protect freshness, aroma and flavour.

Question 11

How much caffeine does it contain?

Accepted Answer

As a black tea, it contains a moderate amount of caffeine. Generally less than coffee but enough to provide a steady lift.

Question 12

Can I add milk?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While many drink it black, a small splash of milk softens the smoke and brings out malt and oak notes. It is a personal preference.

Question 13

What does it pair well with?

Accepted Answer

BBQ, smoked foods, sharp cheeses, dark chocolate and quiet moments.

Question 14

Is smoked tea for everyone?

Accepted Answer

No. Smoked tea is an acquired taste. If you love bold flavours, depth and character, you will likely love it. If you prefer light, floral teas, this may not be your style.

Question 15

How should I store the tea?

Accepted Answer

Keep it sealed in its original pouch, away from light, heat and strong odours. Properly stored, it will retain flavour and aroma for many months.

Question 16

Will you release more teas?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Timber Smoke Tea Co. is built around smoked teas and bold blends. Limited releases and future drops are planned.

Straight answers.

Send a smoke signal.