Formosa Lapsang Souchong is a large leaf black tea with an exceptional & distinctive smoky aroma. Most of the teas produced by the island of Taiwan (formerly Formosa) are Oolongs, although as you will see from my favourites shown, green teas, black teas & lightly fermented Pouchongs are also available. Most gardens are situated in the north of the country around T’ai-pei at elevations below 1,000 feet Taiwan is famous for its tea production which are of three main types: Formosa Oolong Tea, Black Tea & Green Tea. The earliest record of tea trees found in Taiwan can be traced back to 1717 in Shui Sha Lian which is present day Yuchi & Puli in Nantou county. Man of the teas from Taiwan retain the island’s former name, Formosa. Oolongs grown in Taiwan account for about 20% of world production. They are produced through a unique process including withering the plant under the strong sun & allowing oxidisation to take place before the curling & twisting which is done by hand. Most Oolong teas, especially those of fine quality, involve unique tea plant cultivars that are used exclusively for particular varieties of the final tea. The degree of oxidation can range from 8 to 85%, depending on the variety & production style. Oolong is especially popular with tea connoisseurs of south China & Chinese expatriates in Southeast Asia,as is the Fujian preparation process known as the Gongfu tea ceremony. Formosa Lapsang Souchong Tea From Taiwan - 100 Grams