Scotch and Abram's Russian Caravan takes its name from the overland trade routes that carried Chinese teas westward across Central Asia - weeks of travel beside campfires that left the tea chests with a distinctive smoky warmth that became a character in its own right. A full-bodied black tea blend built around that same tradition: Assam for malt and body, Keemun for depth and Oolong for a gentle smokiness that rounds the whole blend out. Bold, rich, and confidently smoky with a satisfying amber colour. The smoke is present without being aggressive - this is not Lapsang Souchong. The malt and body keep it grounded, which means it holds up well to milk if you want to soften the smoky edge, or drinks beautifully black if you want the full campfire character. A cup with genuine presence. How to brew the perfect cup Use freshly boiled water, not left to cool. Use one heaped teaspoon per cup. Steep for 3 to 4 minutes - longer deepens the smoke, shorter keeps it malty. Try it black first. Add milk if you want to soften the smoky edge. How does it compare? More smoke: Taylors Lapsang Souchong Similar to Brodies Russian Caravan Without the smoke: Scotch and Abram's Scottish Breakfast Taylors Lapsang Souchong is the step up if you want the smoke front and centre - pine wood fired, intense, and unmistakably single character. Brodies Russian Caravan is the closest external comparison - same three-component style, worth tasting side by side. Scottish Breakfast shares the same bold, full-bodied character from the same brand without any smoke at all.
