Lapsang Souchong Earl Grey Tea with Chen Pi

Earl Grey Tea with Chen Pi – Lapsang Souchong Black Tea Base

This Earl Grey Tea with Chen Pi (Lapsang Souchong) is a refined blend that marries the bright citrus aroma of bergamot, the warming depth of aged Chen Pi, and the smooth, lightly smoky character of traditional Fujian Souchong black tea.

Harvested in April, the Souchong leaves from Ningde, Fujian, are prized for their gentle sweetness, reddish-amber liquor, and subtle woody aroma. Unlike heavily smoked Lapsang-style teas, this Souchong offers a balanced, mellow base that supports rather than overwhelms the added aromatics.

The infusion of natural bergamot oil gives the tea its signature Earl Grey brightness, while the aged Chen Pi contributes a warm, sweet, and comforting citrus depth. Together, they create a cup that is lively yet soothing, a beautiful harmony of East and West.

Aged Chen Pi is sun-dried tangerine peel that has been carefully stored and allowed to mature over many years, developing a rich, warm aroma with notes of citrus, wood, and spice. Highly valued in traditional Chinese culture, it is used both in cooking and herbal practice, where ageing is believed to enhance its flavour and deepen its digestive benefits. The longer it ages, the smoother and more complex it becomes, turning a simple fruit peel into a prized ingredient with depth, history, and character.

The result is an Earl Grey with layered complexity, combining fresh citrus lift, subtle smokiness, and Chen Pi’s rounded herbal sweetness. Elegant on its own, yet versatile enough to enjoy with milk or a touch of honey.

NOTE: Not suitable for drinking with milk. This Early Grey is very well balanced and low in tannins; milk would kill this tea!

About Ningde, Fujian

Ningde is a well-known tea-producing region in Fujian Province, celebrated for its clean mountain environment and long tradition of crafting high-quality Souchong teas. The area’s cool climate and forested hillsides produce leaves with natural sweetness, light smoky fragrance, and excellent clarity, making them ideal for aromatic blends such as Earl Grey with Chen Pi.

Origin: Ningde, Fujian Province, China
Tea Type: Flavoured Black Tea
Base Tea: Souchong (Xiaozhong) Black Tea
Added Aromatics: Natural Bergamot + Aged Chen Pi (Tangerine Peel)
Harvest Time: April

Tasting Notes

Brewing Guide

• Tea Amount: 3–4 g per 200 ml

• Water Temperature: 90–95 °C (194–203 °F)

• Steep Time: 2–3 minutes

• Re-steeps: 1–2 additional infusions

Serving Suggestions:
– Add lemon to brighten the citrus
– Add milk or cream for a softer, dessert-like cup
– Sweeten lightly to enhance Chen Pi’s warm notes

Why This Tea Is Special

• Crafted from fine Fujian Souchong, known for its soft, balanced character
• Combines bergamot with aged Chen Pi for a unique citrus–herbal harmony
• April-picked leaves ensure freshness and clarity of flavour
• Smooth, aromatic, and versatile, enjoyable plain or with milk
• A creative fusion of traditional Chinese tea craftsmanship with modern Earl Grey style