Lapsang Souchong vs Earl Grey: Smoky vs Floral Black Tea

Quick Answer

If you love bold, campfire-like smokiness, Lapsang Souchong is your tea. If you prefer bright, citrusy floral notes, Earl Grey is the classic. Both are black teas, but they sit at opposite ends of the flavor spectrum. For a twist on the floral side, try Kusmi Tea's Earl Grey goût polonais N°18 or the delicate White Anastasia.

Black tea lovers often find themselves torn between two iconic styles: the smoky depth of Lapsang Souchong and the fragrant citrus of Earl Grey. While both are black teas, their personalities could hardly be more different. This comparison breaks down the taste, aroma, and best uses of each, so you can choose confidently.

We'll also look at how Kusmi Tea reimagines the classic Earl Grey with unique blends, and offer practical brewing tips. Whether you're a smoky enthusiast or a floral fan, there's a cup waiting for you.

Lapsang Souchong: The Smoky Classic

Lapsang Souchong is a black tea from the Wuyi Mountains in China, traditionally dried over pinewood fires. That process gives it a distinctive smoky aroma and a robust, almost campfire-like flavor. The taste is bold, earthy, and slightly tarry, with a lingering finish that some find addictive and others find challenging.

If you enjoy peaty whiskies, smoked foods, or strong coffee, Lapsang Souchong's intensity will likely appeal. It's a tea that demands attention and pairs well with hearty meals. Brew it with boiling water and steep for 3-5 minutes to control the smokiness—shorter steeps yield a milder cup.

• Use slightly cooler water (around 200°F) if you want less smoke.
• Try it with a splash of milk to soften the edge.

Earl Grey: The Floral and Citrus Icon

Earl Grey is a black tea scented with bergamot, a citrus fruit that gives it a bright, floral, and slightly spicy character. The classic profile is refreshing and elegant, making it a favorite for afternoon tea. The bergamot adds a zesty lift that pairs beautifully with the tea's natural maltiness.

Kusmi Tea's Earl Grey goût polonais N°18 takes the classic a step further by adding yellow lemon and lime to the bergamot. The result is a more pronounced citrus tang—'two lemons for the price of one,' as the brand puts it. It's a lively, acidulated twist that brightens the traditional Earl Grey without losing its floral soul.

• Brew with water just off the boil (around 205°F) for 3-4 minutes.
• Add a slice of lemon or a touch of honey to enhance the citrus.

Comparing Taste and Aroma

The core difference lies in the sensory experience. Lapsang Souchong hits you with a wave of smoke—think pine, wood, and a hint of campfire. Earl Grey, on the other hand, greets you with a burst of citrus and floral notes, often described as perfumed and uplifting.

In terms of versatility, Earl Grey is more adaptable. It pairs well with milk, lemon, or as a base for lattes and desserts. Lapsang Souchong is more of a standalone statement, though it can be used in cooking—try it in marinades or to smoke meats. Your choice really comes down to mood: do you want a cozy, intense experience or a bright, refreshing one?

Kusmi Tea Black Tea Twists

While Kusmi Tea doesn't offer a Lapsang Souchong, the brand has several black tea blends that explore the floral-citrus side of Earl Grey. The Earl Grey goût polonais N°18 is a prime example, adding lemon and lime for extra zing. For a gentler take, White Anastasia uses white tea instead of black, offering a lighter, more delicate floral profile with orange blossom and citrus zest.

If you're curious about Kusmi's range, the Coffret Les Essentiels de Kusmi Tea bio includes 24 sachets of eight signature blends, including Prince Vladimir and Anastasia. It's a great way to sample different black tea styles without committing to a full tin.

The Trade-Off: Smoky vs Floral

• Smoke Intensity: Lapsang Souchong delivers a bold, campfire-like smokiness that can overwhelm delicate palates. Earl Grey's citrus and floral notes are lighter and more universally appealing. Choose Lapsang Souchong if you crave depth and don't mind a strong flavor.
• Versatility: Earl Grey shines in milk, lemon, lattes, and desserts. Lapsang Souchong is best enjoyed plain or in savory cooking. Pick Earl Grey for all-day sipping and culinary experiments.
• Caffeine and Calm: Both are black teas with similar caffeine levels. But if you want a lower-caffeine floral option, White Anastasia uses white tea, which has less caffeine than black. For a gentler evening cup, try White Anastasia.

Kusmi Tea Products to Try

• Earl Grey goût polonais N°18: A classic Earl Grey with added yellow lemon and lime, giving it a double citrus kick alongside the bergamot. If you love Earl Grey but want more citrus punch, this blend intensifies the refreshing tang while keeping the floral black tea base.
• White Anastasia: A lighter sibling of the iconic Anastasia, using white tea with orange blossom and citrus zest for a delicate, floral profile. For those who find traditional Earl Grey too strong, this offers a softer, more elegant floral experience with less caffeine.
• Coffret Les Essentiels de Kusmi Tea bio: A gift set with 24 sachets of 8 organic signature recipes, including Prince Vladimir and Anastasia. Perfect for exploring Kusmi's black tea blends and finding your preferred flavor direction without buying full tins.

Which Should You Choose?

Best for

• Lapsang Souchong: Smoked food lovers, whiskey fans, and those who want a bold, savory tea experience.
• Earl Grey: Afternoon tea traditionalists, citrus lovers, and anyone seeking a bright, floral cup.

Not for

• Lapsang Souchong: Those who prefer light, sweet, or fruity teas—the smoke can be too intense.
• Earl Grey: If you detest citrus or want a tea without added flavorings, a plain black tea like Assam is better.

Both Lapsang Souchong and Earl Grey have devoted followings for good reason. The smoky depth of Lapsang Souchong is a sensory adventure, while the floral-citrus charm of Earl Grey offers everyday elegance. If you're in the floral camp, Kusmi Tea's Earl Grey goût polonais N°18 and White Anastasia provide delightful variations. Whichever you choose, you're in for a classic black tea experience.