Life in Teacup sent me a sample of this tea even though it had been discontinued from their catalogue; now, their only Lapsang Souchong is the Lapsang Souchong Superior Grade.

I can see why they discontinued this one: while it was not bad, I thought it was nowhere near as good as the superior grade. Even with the higher price, I would strongly prefer that other tea.

This tea has a moderate aroma of pine smoke, a lot like the British-style Lapsang Souchongs, but slightly more subdued. What it lacks, however, is the cocoa-like complexity, roasted qualities, and nuances of wood and fruit evident in the superior grade.

Flavor is smooth, but considerably less so than the superior grade. There is some bitterness, and considerable sourness, which I dislike. A small amount of astringency in the finish as well.

Although I can see a few people preferring this tea to the superior grade, and although this is not a bad tea, I think that Life in Teacup made a good decision in retiring this one from their catalog. That other tea is absolutely top-notch and I would recommend it highly.

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