1. Harney & Sons Lapsang Souchong
If you want that classic "campfire in a cup" experience, this is the gold standard. It is intensely smoky, almost savory, with notes of pine resin and dried longan fruit. It holds up beautifully to milk and sugar.
- Authentic pine-smoke flavor
- Available in loose leaf & bags
- Bold and robust
- Too strong for beginners
2. Teavivre Unsmoked Lapsang (Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong)
This will change your perception of Lapsang. It has zero smoke. Instead, it tastes like sweet potatoes, cocoa, and roses. This is the style prized in China as a luxury tea. It is smooth, sweet, and complex.
- Naturally sweet (cocoa/fruit notes)
- No harsh smoke flavor
- Authentic Wuyi Mountain origin
- Pricey compared to smoked versions
3. Davidson's Organics Lapsang Souchong
A more moderate smoked tea. It is USDA Organic, ensuring the smoke comes from clean wood sources without chemical additives. The flavor is lighter than Harney's, making it a good entry point.
- USDA Organic Certified
- Bulk bag (Great value)
- Medium smoke intensity
- Leaf quality is slightly broken (BOP)
4. Taylors of Harrogate Lapsang Souchong
From the makers of Yorkshire Gold. This is a reliable, high-quality smoked tea in a bag. It uses a "Lapsang Flavor" which, while less traditional than wood smoking, provides a very consistent and cleaner taste profile.
- Widely available
- Very consistent flavor
- Convenient bags
- Some purists prefer real wood smoke
5. Hu-Kwa Tea (Mark T. Wendell)
This is a legendary brand in the US. It has a distinctively sharp, tarry smoke flavor that makes it incredible for culinary use. Use it to create a "Smoked Tea Rub" for chicken or ribs, or brew it strong for a cocktail mixer.
- Unique fruit/smoke balance
- Legendary history (since 1904)
- Perfect for marinades
- Very distinctive taste (polarizing)
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