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This is my first Lapsang Souchong. The descriptions always scared me off, and I have to say, I wish I’d kept the sheets pulled over my head.

The liquor brewed into a very pretty orange, but as soon as the steam hit my nose. . . It was like a campfire in a cup. The aroma is a bit misleading, though. The first sip was surprisingly mild, but the smokiness lingered even after I’d set the cup down. The smokiness settles down some as it cools off, and I’m hoping a second steep will reveal more flavor with less smoke.

I imagine this is what it’d be like to drink a brisket.

From the April 2014 Select box

The dominant smell is molasses, with a honey undertone. It also smells like an Assam. Very earthy and comforting on this unseasonably chilly April day. The first sip is surprisingly mellow for the way it smells, and a bit bitter when it first hits the tongue. As it’s swallowed, it becomes kind of malty. I expected a bolder flavor, but it’s really good in spite of being so laid back.

I bought this at an Indian grocery, just browsing around. I didn’t realize it was bagged until I’d got it home and opened it up; this discovery bummed me out at first, though I’m not sure why. Anyhow, it’s really a pleasing tea! Nice and spicy, and the cinnamon doesn’t overwhelm the other spices. It’s my go-to tea at work.

I’ve always been told not to look a gift horse in the mouth but. . .here I go.

I received this neat little gadget as an unbirthday present. It steeps my tea just fine, and the fine mesh keeps even the rooibos needles out of my cup. What I don’t like about it is the cleanup. I don’t like disassembling it and trying to scrub the stains out of all the crevices on the bottom.