I have to say, when I first set foot inside Lupicia, I was sad. A store like that really makes me worry for tea going the way of coffee. But this isn’t about the store, it’s about the tea.
This lapsang souchong was really enjoyable. When I first discovered this tea at a cafe back home, I immediately fell in love with its highly recognizable aroma. I make this tea on special occasions, for people who I really care about. Partly because it’s really good, partly because it’s pretty expensive.
Upon opening the container, you really get a blast of that smokey scent. I was astounded by how aromatic all Lupicia’s teas were while I was in the store; almost too aromatic, like they were somehow altered. I knew this one would be a good takeaway, because I knew it was supposed to be this strong.
When steeping, I go shorter than a usual steeping, varying from 2-4 minutes. At a shorter time, you really get the essence and stand alone of that smokey scent. It almost feels like drinking a smokey campfire. When kept on a little longer, say 3 or 4 mins, it picks up an earthy flavor as well, a damp woody taste that makes you feel like you’re in the dirt of Fujian. All around, a very enjoyable tea.
