Russian Caravan Czar Nicholas Tea

Often referred to as the ‘accidental tea’ owing to its coincidental, yet fascinating origins our very own Russian Caravan Czar Nicholas Tea is an especially delicate cup, reminiscent of the days when it was enjoyed in the Royal Court of St. Petersburg!

With its distinct, smoky flavours, coupled with thick woody aromas, it is simply no surprise that this beverage was once fit for Royalty! Here at The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company, we are certain that there is no ‘accident’ regarding this brew’s increased popularity, as this Russian Caravan Tea continues to delight the taste buds of all of its avid consumers!

Much to the understandable astonishment of many of our customers, Russian Caravan, along with every other Russian Caravan Tea – originate from China, not Russia!

The name, however, derives from its treacherous journey along the Sino-Russian Trade Route, established during the 17th Century. Here, over the course of 16 months, large quantities of black loose tea travelled some 10,000 kilometres via Siberia from Imperial China.

During this time, traders from Tsarist Russia would barter various furs for the tea; the tea leaves of which had been subjected to the cold and dry climates from the route, as well as the smoke absorbed from camp fires. This would often result in a strong, full-bodied and notably smokey beverage. This, suited the Russians, who had long since grown accustomed to the powerful flavours and aromas resembling their lives during the fierce scorn of winter. Over the course of time, while the mass-trading between the two countries continued to flourish, this beverage became a whole new class of tea unto itself, and was subsequently dubbed: ‘Russian Caravan Tea’.

Those who enjoy any traditional Lapsang Souchong Tea will certainly love our Russian Caravan. Both beverages share a similar background, and both beverages boast rich, yet delightfully smoky flavours.

This tea can also be brewed in a samovar, for those wishing to take tradition to the next level! These ‘tea urns’ date back hundreds of years, and can be made using many different types of metals, including iron, copper, brass and bronze. Predominantly produced during the 18th, 19th and early 20th Century, samovars are true works of art to be marvelled at, with no two urns ever completely alike.

Type of Tea: Loose Leaf Black Tea.

Origin: Blended with teas from India (Assam & Nilgiri), Sri Lanka (Dimbula), and China, (The Fujian Province.)

Brewing Instructions:  Brew using freshly boiled water (around 80 degrees) and infuse for 3 to 4 minutes.

How to Serve: The choice is yours with this delicious tea – as milk, sugar, honey or lemon can all be enjoyed as delightful accompaniments. Prefer to keep things simple? Great! Czar Nicholas Russian Caravan Tea is best served as it is.

Tasting Notes: Czar Nicholas Russian Caravan Tea offers everything you would expect of the name, with strong, full-bodied, and smoky flavours dancing on your palette with every sip. Perfect as an afternoon tea, this beverage also offers smooth, woody undertones and a slightly sweet aftertaste.

Colour in Cup: Coppery liquor, light in tone.

Benefits of Drinking Russian Caravan Tea: It's ability to aid with weight loss is well-documented, while its consumption has also been largely associated with promoting a healthy heart, preventing tooth decay and even reducing the signs of aging skin!

Further to this, Scientific Studies have indicated the possibility of this beverage building up bone strength, making it a popular choice for anyone living with osteoporosis or mild brittle bones (osteogenesis imperfecta).