How to Brew Organic Russian Caravan Tea for Smoky Flavor

By Premium Organic Loose Leaf | Published: 2026-10-23

Category: How-to Guides

Learn the precise water temperature, steeping time, and technique to bring out the smoky, malty notes of Organic Russian Caravan Tea without bitterness.

Quick answer

For a balanced smoky flavor without bitterness, brew Organic Russian Caravan Tea at 195-205°F (90-96°C) for 3-4 minutes using 1 teaspoon of loose leaf per 8 oz of water.

Why temperature and time matter for smoky tea

Russian Caravan Tea blends robust Assam black tea with Lapsang Souchong, which is pine-smoked. The Assam base gives malty, brisk notes, while the Lapsang adds a distinctive smoky character. If the water is too hot or the steeping too long, the smoky notes can turn harsh and the tea becomes bitter. If the water is too cool, the smoke flavor may not fully develop.

Step-by-step brewing guide

Step 1: Measure the leaves: Use 1 teaspoon (about 2-3 grams) of Organic Russian Caravan Tea per 8 oz (240 ml) of water. For a stronger cup, add a little more leaf, not more time. Common mistake: using too many leaves can overwhelm the smoky notes. Stick to 1 tsp per cup first.
Step 2: Heat the water: Heat fresh, filtered water to 195-205°F (90-96°C). If you don't have a thermometer, bring water to a boil and let it rest for 30 seconds. Boiling water (212°F) will scorch the Lapsang Souchong and make the smoke taste acrid.
Step 3: Steep the tea: Pour the hot water over the leaves and steep for 3-4 minutes. Start with 3 minutes for a milder smoke, 4 minutes for a bolder profile. Steeping longer than 5 minutes releases tannins that create bitterness, not more smoke flavor.
Step 4: Strain and serve: Remove the leaves immediately after steeping. If using a teapot with an infuser, take the infuser out. Pour into your cup and enjoy plain or with a splash of milk. Leaving the leaves in the pot will continue to steep and turn bitter. Always remove them.

Product used in this guide

Organic Russian Caravan Tea: Ingredients: Black Tea Assam, -South India*, Black Tea Lapsang Souchong*. *Certified Organic. The Assam base gives malty body, while the Lapsang Souchong provides the signature smoky aroma. Using organic leaves ensures no synthetic residues affect the flavor.
Organic Russian Caravan Tea