Description

Russian Caravan is a blend of Chinese teas built around Lapsang Souchong, with its characteristic smoky aroma. Although the smoke is prominent, it’s not aggressive: the sweet and smooth tea notes set the stage, allowing the smoky aftertaste to drift and linger. Enjoy it straight, or add milk and sweetener. (So if you make a London Fog with Russian Caravan, then this would be a London Smoke? or a Mongolian Fog?)

The history of Russian Caravan goes back to overland trading routes of the 1600s and 1700s. Traders then went by camel caravan from China and other tea-producing regions, through Russia, into Europe. According to lore, the abundance of campfire smoke on this route gave the tea a characteristic, prized flavor. Eventually the smoking process moved nearer to the farms themselves, and Lapsang Souchong was created. Souchong denotes older, larger growth on the tea plant. While the younger buds (or golden tips) are typically most sought-after, this process of smoking older tea leaves created a new phenomenon—now a mainstay of the tea world.

Fortunately, we get to enjoy this tea without hopping on a camel or journeying across Mongolia. If you’re curious to try a smoked tea, Russian Caravan is an ideal place to start.

A made in Montana tea.

Lake Missoula Tea Company commits to direct-sourcing teas and botanicals from sustainable farms. First we choose organic ingredients, and then we create our blends in small batches. In short, we love to drink this stuff, and we’re proud to share with you the tastiest, freshest tea possible. Store away from light and oxygen, and your teas will keep for a good long time.