Lapsang Souchong is treasured for its unique smoky flavor and aroma, which is achieved through drying the tea leaves over pine log fires. True to the nature of a good Smoked Lapsang, this tea is strong with smoky (pine) fragrance and taste. The lingering aftertaste has a somewhat cooling effect on the tongue. The infusion is a clear amber-red.

Legend claims that the smoking process was discovered by accident. During the Qing dynasty, an army unit passing through Xingcun (Star Village) camped in a tea factory filled with fresh leaves awaiting processing. When the soldiers left and the workers could get back into the premises, they realized that to arrive at market in time, it was too late to dry the leaves in the usual way. So they lit open fires of pine wood to hasten the drying. Not only did the tea reach the market in time, but the smoked pine flavor created a sensation!