Lapsang Souchong (Zengshan Xiaozhong)

The first China Black teas that left the northern Fujian coast to western Europe came from the mountainous tea producing area now known for its Lapsang Souchong. Lapsang Souchong is a smoked tea with a distinctive flavor from the tea leaves being withered and dried over pine wood fires, and becoming thick, glossy, coral black strips, slightly curled. They produce an infusion that is whiskey-like in appearance with a phenolic aroma and a pungent smoky flavor. This tea is often used in "Russian Caravan" blends. It is drunk with or without sugar and milk. Use 1 generous tsp. dried leaf (3-4g) per 6-ounce cup of spring water heated to just below boiling (212°).  Pour hot water over leaves and steep 4 minutes.