Smoked Tea: A Unique Black Tea with Woody Notes

While belonging to the classic tea family, smoked tea cultivates a certain originality. More than just a "simple" black tea, it is defined by dominant, characteristic notes and a unique tasting experience. Through our tea house's catalogue, discover our various loose-leaf smoked teas, refined selections to enjoy and share with lovers of authenticity.

Smoked Tea: A Singular Black Tea with Pleasant Woody Notes

Smoked tea is the result of a fortunate accident. In the 1820s, in the heart of the Chinese province of Fujian, tea growers, deprived of their drying rooms, decided to place their damp tea leaves over a fire fueled by spruce roots to dry them. The dried leaves released a smoky aroma that caught the attention of a foreign merchant. This atypical black tea soon gained great popularity in Europe and became the preferred drink of many discerning tea lovers worldwide. It is now part of the offerings of the finest tea houses.

The process of making smoked tea is similar to that of black tea. The only difference is the smoking or wood drying, which takes place after the withering and rolling stages, but before the oxidation, drying, and sorting of the tea leaves. This additional step gives the tea its distinctive infusion, with aromas that range from lightly to intensely smoky, depending on the variety and blend.

Just as comforting as a wood fire in winter or a walk in the forest under the first rays of the year’s sun, smoked tea is undoubtedly your best companion on gray days. Since it is relatively low in caffeine, enjoy it whenever you’re in the mood for a soothing cup of tea.

Savor Our Exceptional Smoked Teas from Dawn to Dusk

At Betjeman & Barton, smoked tea accompanies you throughout the day, including during meals. Steep it in water at 90°C for 2 to 5 minutes on average to fully enjoy its uniquely original flavors. Start your tasting experience with our Chinese black tea "Tarry Souchong," which has intense woody notes. Perfect for breakfast during the week or brunch on weekends. Continue with lunch with the great classic of Chinese smoked teas, "Lapsang Souchong" – the first black tea from China, best suited to accompany savory meals.

For tea time, try our delicately smoked blend of Chinese black teas. Sprinkled with white tips, it beautifully combines softness and character, offering a perfectly balanced infusion. Conclude your taste journey with our black tea "Imperial Or O.P." which has subtly smoky notes. Its jasmine flowers promise a delightful sensory experience from morning to evening. For a change of pace, also enjoy our rare and exquisite "Japon Souchong," smoked with Japanese cherry wood, offering a finesse beyond compare.