Lapsang Souchong Tea
Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong
Lapsang Souchong is a smoked black tea from the Wuyi mountains, where the leaves are withered and dried over pinewood fires.
Flavor Profile
What does Lapsang Souchong taste like?
Lapsang Souchong is a smoked black tea from the Wuyi mountains, where the leaves are withered and dried over pinewood fires. The cup carries a distinctive campfire smoke character layered over dried longan, pine resin, and a mild fruity sweetness. Traditional versions are gently smoky rather than harsh; the smoke integrates with the tea instead of overwhelming it. It remains one of China's most recognizable black teas and a fixture of Western tea culture since the 17th century.
Bar length reflects the relative prominence of each flavor note (dominant first), not a laboratory measurement.
Origin
Fujian (Wuyi), China
Authentic Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong comes from the Wuyi mountains of northern Fujian.
The birthplace of tea, producing every major tea style from green to dark.
Brewing Guide
How to Brew Lapsang Souchong
Brewing parameters are a starting point and can be adjusted to taste.
Caffeine
Caffeine in Lapsang Souchong
Typical brewed serving
Lapsang Souchong is a medium-caffeine black tea. A typical brewed serving contains about 35–60 mg of caffeine.
Values can vary depending on quantity, brewing time, serving size, and preparation method.
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FAQ
Lapsang Souchong Tea FAQ
Quick answers about Lapsang Souchong tea, drawn from its flavor, origin, caffeine, and brewing profile.
What is Lapsang Souchong tea?
Lapsang Souchong is a smoked black tea from the Wuyi mountains, where the leaves are withered and dried over pinewood fires. It is also known as Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong.
Does Lapsang Souchong tea have caffeine?
Yes. Lapsang Souchong is a medium-caffeine tea, typically 35–60 mg per brewed serving.
What does Lapsang Souchong tea taste like?
Lapsang Souchong is known for a profile led by Smoky, Fruity, and Sweet, with a medium body.
How do you brew Lapsang Souchong tea?
Use about 3 g of tea per 250 ml of water at 95–100°C, steeping for 3–5 minutes. It can be re-steeped 1–2 times.
Is Lapsang Souchong tea bitter?
Bitterness is not a defining note of Lapsang Souchong; its profile centers on Smoky, Fruity, and Sweet.