RUSSIAN CARAVAN

STRONG Cup Strength

A blend of black teas and smoky Lapsang Souchong which recreate the campfires and brisk, starry nights experienced by the caravans carrying tea to the Russian Czar.

Russian Caravan - 10 Tea Bag Box
$5.95
Russian Caravan - 50 Tea Bag Box
$15.95
Russian Caravan - Loose 2oz/56g
$7.95
Russian Caravan - Loose 4oz/113g
$13.95
Russian Caravan - Loose 8oz/227g
$24.95
Russian Caravan - Loose 16oz/454g
$44.95

SOURCED, BLENDED AND PACKAGED IN-HOUSE
PRICES LISTED IN CANADIAN DOLLARS (CAD)

Bright and flavourful, Russian Caravan takes its name from the camel trains that traveled from China to Russia, once used to transport fine teas to the courts of the Czar in Saint Petersburg.

It has been said that the blend was created to rekindle some of the flavours found in those teas, hints of campfire and bright starry nights. Unique blending of Lapsang, Darjeeling and China black tea creates a rich, aromatic brew with a smoky flavour.

Tea Bag Ingredients: Black tea (Assam, Darjeeling, Keemun), lapsang souchong
Loose Tea Ingredients: Black tea (Assam, Darjeeling, Nepal, Keemun), lapsang souchong
Caffeine Caffeinated
Cup Strength Strong
Origin Blend
Tea Format Loose Tea, Tea Bags
Type Black

A favourite; so delicious!  Review by  ['Jewels']

I love the smokiness of this tea! For me it really does remind me of nights out in front of the fire, camping, woodlands and cozy peaceful times.

Posted on 2023-04-12

Fragrances and taste.. that hook you in.  Review by  ['The Czar']

Caravans of long ago and yet a few sips bring you as if your there. Smokiness, earthy and a hint of music and laughter. Excitement and rewards when sipped by those of prestige and power. Not for the faint hearted…bring one’s self back to a time almost forgotten. The Czar

Posted on 2022-09-29

Love This Tea  Review by  Susan

It was love at first sip. Definitely a tea that will always be stocked at my house.

Posted on 2021-11-16

Very polarizing  Review by  The Pope

I really enjoy this tea, but everyone I've ever asked has absolutely hated it. It is very strong and extremely smoky--definitely not for daily drinking, but I always make sure to keep a 50-box on hand. But I would recommend that everyone try it, at least once.

Posted on 2019-03-18

Definitely Worth Trying  Review by  Ben

As everyone else has said, it's a great tea that's not for everyone. It tastes like smoke, and is best consumed outside on a cold day.

Posted on 2017-04-01

Love it  Review by  Red Ruffensor

As with Souchong, this is one you either love or hate. I love it! Note: My mom used to enjoy mixing this with Earl Grey. She was a little quirky.

Posted on 2016-06-24

Fantastic Tea, Not For Everyone  Review by  Ben

If experiences had flavor, this tea would be walking through a dense forest in the middle of winter, comfortable under layers of warm clothing. I agree with Kristinee: it's not a tea for everyone. Some people love it, some people hate it. Personally, I think it's fantastic and that everyone ought to give it a shot.

Posted on 2016-05-15

Wonderfully exotic  Review by  Teajoe

I love this tea. It does have a strong taste and aroma, but it stands out for me from most other black teas which often taste quite similar. Great on a cold afternoon.

Posted on 2016-01-09

Great!  Review by  Tea Granny

While it is an acquired taste as all teas are, those who experience it, especially if you have ever had tea brewed over an open fire, will love it! Men especially (not trying to sound sexist here guys but it's easier for us to admit loving a strong tea than a weak one) will love it although anyone who likes a good strong tea will appreciate it. Indispensable in the camp gear it is equally at home around the fireplace or just as an accompaniment to good music or a good book!

Posted on 2016-01-04

beware-it must be an acquired taste  Review by  Kristinee

Well, I hated this tea, my sister also didn't care for it either. It is very camp-fire smoky and would definitely would be an acquired taste. I was intrigued by the description and love strong tea but would not recommend this blend unless you are in the store and try it first.

Posted on 2014-07-24

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Standardized cupping technique and vessel for tasting tea General guidelines on steeping different kinds of tea

Steeping the Best (Guide)

Different types of teas should be steeped according to certain times and water temperatures to bring out their best flavours. Use this guide as a starting point, and then experiment until you find the perfect brewing method for your favourite tea.

Based on approximately one level teaspoon (2.5 g) of loose tea or one tea bag per 6-8 ounce (180-240 mL) cup. For stronger flavour, add more tea. Brewing for longer may increase the strength of the tea, but will likely also cause bitterness.

Tea Bags vs. Loose Tea

While our tea bags and loose tea are crafted to match the same flavour profile, there are discernable effects between the two formats. Namely, the leaves inside tea bags is milled, making it much finer and a quicker brew, while loose tea can take a couple minutes longer to steep. Tea bags are very convenient, but loose tea can be more visually appealing and brewed with a reusable infuser.

  1. Tea bags: steep for 3 - 4 minutes
  2. Loose tea: steep for 4 - 5 minutes

General Steeping Temperatures

The table included here shows some general guidelines for steeping different kinds of tea. Be mindful that some teas, even two from the same category, will brew differently than others. In particular, our green-black blends will often have different ratios of green and black teas - the more green-leaning ones should be brewed at a lower temperature range. Experimentation is highly encouraged, as tea is very much a matter of personal taste.

Puerh and oolong teas are often steeped multiple times for a shorter period of time in smaller brewing vessels. This method creates a curious exploration of the tea as it unfurls, developing new flavours with each subsequent brew - often making for great social conversation.

If you're unsure, try steeping in the middle range for your tea type. If the result is too bitter, steep at a lower temperature or for a shorter time. If the result is flat, try a higher temperature.

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