Russian Caravan is a historic blended black tea with roots in the 17th-century overland tea trade between China and Russia via Mongolia and Siberia — the longest tea route in history, stretching more than 11,000 miles. The classic blend combines Keemun, Oolong, and a small proportion of Lapsang Souchong, with the smoky Lapsang component traditionally explained by the influence of campfire smoke during the months-long camel caravan journey. Modern versions vary in their smoke intensity, but the characteristic earthy, slightly smoky, and complex profile remains consistent.
The Keemun provides the winey, floral backbone; the Oolong adds medium-body and aromatic complexity; the Lapsang Souchong contributes the distinctive smokiness that defines the blend. The result is a tea richer and more complex than any single component alone.
In the cup, Russian Caravan brews a deep amber. The aroma is smoky, earthy, and complex. The body is full-medium, the finish long and warming. It drinks well with or without milk.
Use 2–3 grams per 8-ounce cup.