Lapsang Souchong Shaowu Organic

Shaowu lies in the North of the Fujian province and is generally considered the production capital of Chinese smoked teas. Generally, large, ripe tea leaves are used for this organically grown tea as they are perfectly suited to the repeated smoking processes and ensure a successful, spicy outcome. The beautifully regular worked leaf is streaked with anthracite tones and presents some golden tips. The cup is full-bodied with a soft, smoky accent.

Often considered the first black tea in history, Lapsang Souchong originates from the Wuyi Mountains of Fujian, China, the same region that later gave rise to Keemun and other celebrated black teas.

Legend tells that during the Qing Dynasty, local tea producers were forced to speed up their drying process when passing armies delayed the harvest. To meet demand, they dried the tea leaves over open fires made from local pinewood, giving birth to the now-famous smoky character of Lapsang Souchong.

The name “Souchong” refers to the larger, more mature fourth and fifth leaves of the tea plant. These leaves, being coarser and less aromatic than the younger buds, take on the pine smoke beautifully during the drying process: resulting in a deep, rich, and distinctive flavour.

Our Organic Lapsang Souchong is crafted using traditional methods, with no added flavours or artificial smoke. The signature aroma and taste come purely from the natural pinewood drying process, giving a clean, resinous smokiness balanced by a soft sweetness and notes of dried fruit.

Cup Colour: Deep amber-brown
Flavour Profile: Bold, smoky, smooth, and naturally sweet
Amount per cup: 1 heaped teaspoon
Brewing time: 4–5 minutes
Origin: Fujian, China