Lapsang Souchong (a smoked black tea from Wuyi Mountain, China)

I. Health Benefits of Lapsang Souchong

1. Boosts Alertness and Focus
   Contains caffeine and tea polyphenols, which help relieve fatigue and enhance concentration. Suitable for drinking in the morning or afternoon.

2. Aids Digestion
   As a warm-natured black tea, it soothes the stomach, aids digestion, and alleviates bloating after greasy meals.

3. Antioxidant Properties
   Tea polyphenols and theaflavins have antioxidant effects, helping to delay cellular aging.

4. Regulates Metabolism
   Promotes blood circulation and assists in regulating blood lipids and blood sugar (when combined with a healthy diet).

5. Relieves Stress
   Its unique smoky aroma helps relax the mind and body, easing tension.

Note: Black tea contains caffeine. Sensitive individuals should consume it in moderation and avoid drinking on an empty stomach or before bedtime.

II. Brewing Methods for Lapsang Souchong

1. Tea Ware Selection

Recommended: white porcelain gaiwan or purple clay teapot, which allow for observing the tea liquor’s color and concentrating the tea’s aroma.

2. Brewing Steps

• Tea Amount: 3-5 grams of tea leaves (for a 150ml gaiwan).

• Water Temperature: 90-95°C (let boiling water cool slightly to avoid damaging the flavor).

• Warm the Teaware: Rinse the teaware with hot water to raise its temperature.

• Rinse the Tea: Quickly pour water over the leaves and discard the first infusion (to awaken the tea and remove dust).

• Formal Brewing:

  • 1st to 3rd Infusion: Steep for 5-10 seconds. The tea liquor will be bright orange-red with a pronounced smoky aroma.

  • 4th to 6th Infusion: Increase steeping time by 5-10 seconds per infusion. The flavor will become richer, with a stronger sweet aftertaste.

  • Subsequent infusions can be adjusted to personal taste. High-quality tea can be brewed 8-10 times.

3. Serving Suggestions

• Drink Plain: Enjoy the layered notes of smoky pinewood and honeyed sweetness.

• Pair with Food: Complements cheese, nuts, or chocolate, balancing the smoky flavor.

• Blended Drinks: Add milk or lemon slices to make English milk tea or lemon black tea.

III. Precautions

• For Lapsang Souchong with a stronger smoky flavor, reduce the tea amount or lower the water temperature (around 85°C) to soften the taste.

• Store in a sealed container, away from light, moisture, and strong odors, to keep the tea dry.

Hope this information helps you better enjoy the unique flavor of Lapsang Souchong! 🍵