Lapsang Souchong

Lapsang Souchong is a unique tea from the Fujian province of China. This tea gets its character from the special smoking process used in its production. After plucking, the leaves are withered in bamboo baskets over pine or cypress wood fires. Then, they are pan fried and rolled. After the rolling process, they are placed in wooden barrels to develop their pleasant aroma. Finally, they are placed in bamboo baskets and hung on racks, once again over smoky pine fires, where they dry and absorb the essence of the smoke. The finished tea leaves are thick and black. When steaped in hot water, they produce a bright reddish-orange cup of tea. The flavor and aroma are very assertive, appealing to those who like a bold cup of tea.