Emperor Butterfly Lapsang Souchong

A bold, pine-smoked loose leaf Lapsang Souchong with deep campfire richness, dark malt, and a clean, lingering finish. Big flavour. Zero faff.

The flavour

Bold, alluring and heady, Emperor Butterfly delivers classic Lapsang Souchong character without harshness: think warm pine smoke, toasted oak, treacle edges and a hint of leather. The liquor pours deep copper; the smoke opens to gentle sweetness as it cools.

Why you’ll love it

• Authentic smoke: Traditionally pine-smoked black tea from Fujian, China.
• Rich & complex: Resinous pine, oak, cocoa husk, and a touch of dried fruit.
• Smooth, not ashy: Full-bodied and rounded, with a clean aftertaste.
• Versatile: Beautiful neat; also superb with a splash of milk or as a winter latte.

Origin & craft

• Region: Fujian Province, China (Wuyi area)
• Style: Zhengshan Xiaozhong (Lapsang Souchong) – large, mature leaves.
• Process: Withered and oxidised black tea leaves are gently smoked over pine wood, layering aroma without overpowering the leaf.

Brewing guide

Western style

• 2–2.5g per 250ml
• 95–100°C (freshly boiled)
• 2–3 minutes
• Infusions: up to 3 (slightly longer each round)

Gongfu (richer, shorter steeps)

• 5g per 120ml gaiwan/teapot
• 95–100°C
• 20–25s, then +5–10s each infusion (6–8 infusions)

Milk? Optional. Start neat to taste the smoke; add a splash of milk or oat for a rounded, campfire-cocoa vibe.

Pair it with

Smoked cheddar, dark chocolate, roast mushrooms, venison, or a square of ginger cake. For cocktails: Lapsang old fashioned or a smoky hot toddy.

Ingredients - Premium smoked black tea.

Caffeine - Medium. Great afternoon warmer; ideal by the fire.

Storage - Keep airtight, cool and dark.

FAQs

Is Lapsang Souchong naturally smoky?

Yes—the smoke comes from pine-wood firing, not flavouring oils.

How smoky is this one?

Decisively smoky but balanced—depth without acrid bitterness.

Can I add milk or sugar?

Yes. It’s excellent neat; a splash of milk softens the edges for a malty, campfire cup.

What’s the difference between Lapsang and Russian Caravan?

Russian Caravan blends often include Lapsang but are less smoky and more malty. Emperor Butterfly is a pure smoked black tea.

Cold brew?

Surprisingly good: 8g per 1L cold water, 8–10 hours in the fridge; strain. Clean, smoky-sweet.