Lapsang Souchong: A Ritual of Smoke, Silence, and Time

In the world of tea, there are leaves that whisper, and there are leaves that speak with quiet certainty.
Lapsang Souchong belongs to the latter. It is a black tea shaped not only by soil and season, but by fire, wood, and time. From the very first breath of steam rising from the cup, its presence is unmistakable, deep, smoky, and contemplative.

This is not a tea that seeks universal approval. Instead, it invites stillness. It asks the drinker to slow down, to listen, and to allow memory and sensation to unfold gently, sip by sip.

What Is Lapsang Souchong?

Lapsang Souchong is a traditional Chinese black tea, distinguished by its signature smoky aroma derived from pinewood smoke. Unlike most black teas, which emphasize maltiness or sweetness, Lapsang Souchong carries a bold, atmospheric character, reminiscent of wood fires, forest cabins, and quiet evenings by the hearth.

Its flavor is dry, structured, and layered, offering depth rather than brightness. For those who appreciate complexity and restraint, Lapsang Souchong reveals itself as a tea meant to be experienced slowly and intentionally.

Origins: From the Wuyi Mountains to the World

The story of Lapsang Souchong begins in the rugged terrain of the Wuyi Mountains, located in China’s Fujian province. This region, renowned for its misty peaks and ancient tea forests, has long been a cradle of exceptional Chinese teas.

According to legend, the smoking process that defines Lapsang Souchong originated out of necessity. Tea leaves were once dried quickly over pinewood fires to meet urgent demand, unintentionally infusing them with the scent of smoke. What began as an improvised solution soon became a defining technique — one that transformed Lapsang Souchong into a tea unlike any other.

Over time, the method was refined, and the smoky profile became a deliberate expression rather than an accident, carrying with it the atmosphere of its birthplace.

Why Lapsang Souchong Is So Distinctive

What sets Lapsang Souchong apart is not simply its smokiness, but the way smoke is integrated into the tea’s structure. When crafted with care, the pinewood aroma does not overpower the leaf. Instead, it enhances the tea’s depth, grounding its flavor and extending its finish.

A well-made Lapsang Souchong feels calm and composed. The smoke is warm rather than sharp, lingering softly like a memory rather than demanding attention. It is a tea that resonates with those who value quiet strength, patience, and understated complexity.

Recommended Selections from Chaidim

Chaidim Lapsang Souchong — Smoked Black Tea (Traditional)

This is Lapsang Souchong in its most classic form. The pinewood smoke is immediately present, bold yet balanced, framing a deep and structured black tea body beneath. The liquor is dry, full, and steady, with a long, smoky finish that remains well after the cup is empty.

Ideal for evenings, post-dinner moments, or pairing with savory foods, aged cheeses, or smoked dishes, this tea is best enjoyed when time feels unhurried and conversation can linger.

Chaidim Lapsang Souchong — Orchid Aroma

Chaidim’s Orchid Aroma offers a more nuanced interpretation of Lapsang Souchong. Here, the intensity of smoke is softened, allowing delicate floral notes — reminiscent of orchid blossoms — to emerge naturally.

The result is a tea that retains the soul of Lapsang Souchong while introducing greater elegance and approachability. Smooth, balanced, and gently aromatic, it is well suited for daytime drinking or for those discovering smoky teas for the first time.

A Quiet Conclusion

Lapsang Souchong is not a tea designed to impress at first glance. It is a tea that rewards attention, patience, and presence. Whether expressed through the boldness of a traditional smoked profile or the refined softness of Orchid Aroma, it reflects a shared philosophy — respect for craftsmanship, time, and mindful enjoyment.

Discover both expressions of Lapsang Souchong at Chaidim Tea House (Trimit Road, Yaowarat, Bangkok) | 10:00–17:00 (Closed Sundays) ,

or order online at www.chaidim.com