Lapsang Souchong Tea Leopard

Known for its distinctively smoky flavour, Lapsang Souchong Leopard is just one of our many enchanting examples of this unique variety of tea. Created using a Chinese Large Loose Leaf Tea, this new grade of Lapsang Souchong Loose Tea is traditionally manufactured after fermentation where the loose tea leaves are briefly roasted in hot pans using smoking wood. The end result has earnt Lapsang Souchong its renowned name as Western markets boom with this fascinating and beloved blend.  

Many legends surround the origin of Lapsang Souchong. In fact, no definitive answer has ever been established as to how this blend began. One such story follows a time of great upheaval In China, as warlords and local bandit gangs wandered the country without restraint. As peace-loving farmers went about their business, their modest wealth began to attract the attention of those looking for easy plunder.

The bandits began to demand “protection” money which would in no doubt cripple the virtuous workers. In the hope of appeasing both paid labourers and demanding scoundrels, the farmers began to push harder to harvest the best leaves and get them oxidizing in carefully vented pine sheds before the final roasting and drying process. This could mean, if done well, that the farmers might be able to fetch a high enough price from the Dutch to pay off the local thugs. Unfortunately, the bandits grew restless and torched the tea storage sheds on the last night. As many of the buildings succumbed to the incessant blaze, the pine sheds were only partially damaged.

Whilst some of the tea was destroyed, a large quantity had survived. This however did not change the fact that most of it was initially deemed useless due to the smoky flavour absorbed from the fire. Despite this massive setback, the farmers tried to sell their produce to the Dutch, and when the traders tasted this strange concoction, they were thrilled with the outcome! Whether there is any truth in this story, we will never know, but one thing can be said without a doubt – Lapsang Souchong is still here today, and better than ever!

Type of Tea: Black Loose Leaf Tea.

Origin: China 

Brewing Guide: Brew using fresh boiling water and leave to infuse for 2 to 4 minutes.

How to Serve: Can be enjoyed on its own but also consider experimenting with the addition of milk, honey and / or lemon.

Tasting Notes: A distinctively smoky aroma wafts from your cup with a similarly smoky, yet smooth taste that lingers on your tongue.

Colour in Cup: Rich Golden liquor with coppery highlights.

Health Benefits of Lapsang Souchong Tea: Ongoing Scientific studies have uncovered the outstanding health benefits of Lapsanf Tea associated with Lapsang Souchong consumption. These include improved Cardiovascular health, strengthened immune systems, weight loss capabilities and a generally lower intake of caffeine.

You can learn more about the History and Health benefits of Lapsand Souchong Tea buy reading our Lapsang Tea Article.