For centuries, tea has been a beloved beverage around the world. Each region has its own unique varieties and flavors, but one tea that stands out from the rest is smoked tea lapsang souchong. This distinctive tea has a rich history and a flavor profile that is loved by many. However, recent changes in the market have caused some controversy among tea enthusiasts.
The Controversy Surrounding Twinings and Lapsang Souchong
Twinings, a renowned tea brand with a history spanning 300 years, recently made the decision to delist their lapsang souchong tea and replace it with an imitation that has left some die-hard fans outraged. The new offering, called distinctively smoky, claims to be reminiscent of lapsang souchong but has received mixed reviews.
Some customers have described the flavor as sipping a swimming pool after a chemical incident or like old cigarettes. This stark contrast to the dark and mellow with a distinct woody flavor described by Twinings has left loyal customers feeling heartbroken. Lapsang souchong holds a special place for ex-smokers, hippy students, and tea lovers around the world, making this change particularly significant.
Twinings explained that they faced challenges with sourcing the original blend, leading to their decision to replace it with a new blend that replicates the distinct flavor. However, independent sellers like The Rare Tea Company have not encountered any supply issues with their lapsang souchong blends. They source their teas directly from farmers, ensuring a consistent supply and maintaining the unique flavor profile.
The Unique Process and Flavor of Lapsang Souchong
Lapsang souchong gets its unique flavor from the way it is processed. The tea leaves are smoked with pinewood, either with the bark removed for a more delicate flavor or left on for a punchier smoke. This smoking process gives the tea its distinct smoky aroma and flavor.
Henrietta Lovell, a tea curator for top hotels, explains that lapsang souchong was more popular in the 19th century and is better enjoyed black, in loose leaf form, and in a proper cup. It is a tea that is favored by older tea drinkers who grew up drinking stronger loose leaf tea.
Despite lapsang souchong's decline in popularity among the general population, it has seen a rise in popularity in bars and cocktails. The smoky flavor of lapsang souchong adds a unique twist to cocktails and is increasingly being used by mixologists to create innovative drinks.
The Future of Lapsang Souchong
While Twinings' decision to replace their lapsang souchong tea has caused controversy, there are still other options available for tea lovers who crave the unique smoky flavor. Independent sellers like The Rare Tea Company continue to offer their lapsang souchong blends, ensuring that tea enthusiasts can still enjoy this beloved tea.
As the tea market continues to evolve, it's important for tea brands to listen to their customers and understand the demand for specific flavors and blends. Lapsang souchong may have seen a decline in popularity among the general population, but it still holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate its unique flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is lapsang souchong tea?
- Lapsang souchong tea is a type of black tea that is known for its distinct smoky flavor. The tea leaves are smoked with pinewood during the processing, giving it a unique aroma and taste.
- Why did Twinings replace their lapsang souchong tea?
- Twinings cited challenges with sourcing the original blend as the reason for replacing their lapsang souchong tea. They introduced a new blend that aims to replicate the distinct flavor of the original.
- Are there other brands that still offer lapsang souchong tea?
- Yes, there are independent sellers like The Rare Tea Company that continue to offer lapsang souchong tea. They source their teas directly from farmers, ensuring a consistent supply and maintaining the unique flavor profile.
- Is lapsang souchong tea popular?
- Lapsang souchong tea has seen a decline in popularity among the general population, but it is still favored by older tea drinkers and has gained popularity in bars and cocktails.
In Conclusion
Lapsang souchong tea, with its unique smoky flavor, has captured the hearts of tea enthusiasts around the world. While Twinings' decision to replace their lapsang souchong tea has caused controversy, there are still options available for those who appreciate this distinct flavor. Independent sellers like The Rare Tea Company continue to offer lapsang souchong blends, ensuring that the legacy of this beloved tea continues.
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