RUSSIAN CARAVAN
STRONG
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 |
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| Russian Caravan - 50 Tea Bag Box |
$15.95 |
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| Russian Caravan - Loose 2oz/56g |
$7.95 |
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| Russian Caravan - Loose 4oz/113g |
$13.95 |
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| Russian Caravan - Loose 8oz/227g |
$24.95 |
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| Russian Caravan - Loose 16oz/454g |
$44.95 |
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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.
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 |
Tea for Scotch Drinkers Review by ['Stardog']
If you like Scotch--especially the smoky, peaty varieties--this is the tea for you!
Posted on 2024-03-21Absolutely Breathtaking Review by ['Jo']
This is my first time trying Murchies, this was tucked away in a fine tea cabinet. I was shocked by the flavor, nuance and smell of this tea. My new favorite all day tea :)
Posted on 2024-01-24Wonderful full bodied tea, Great for the cold. Review by ['Nighthawk']
This has been my go to tea since the 40+ years ago when I placed my first order with Murchie's. Been away from Munchies's too long and decided to submit an order for Christmas and the other holidays. Love Russian Caravan with a bit of raw sugar and a dollop of whole cream. Winter heaven.
Posted on 2023-12-10Incredibly sensual Review by Valeria
This is incredibly satisfying. Marvelous full body with an exotic smoky taste.
Posted on 2023-09-12A 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 2023-04-12Fragrances 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 2022-09-29Love This Tea Review by Susan
It was love at first sip. Definitely a tea that will always be stocked at my house.
Posted on 2021-11-16Very 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 2019-03-18Excellent and bright Review by Michelle Butler Hallett
1.5 tsp for 300mL water 100C, steeped 4 minutes, drunk bare. Dry leaf: mostly brown, some dark green. Aroma: smoky toast, some nuttiness. Wet leaf: mahogany, brown, and amber with some bright green. Aroma: subtle smoke, earth. Liquor: reddish brown, light body. Smoky but not tarry. Some surprising crispness and florals— a Nepal or Darjeeling tea in the blend? Some mineral notes as the tea cools. I wish the body was just a little heavier. Otherwise a very fine Russian Caravan, distinctive and smoky yet also balanced.
Posted on 2019-01-09Tea is medicine Review by Mr. Wobbles
We have been drinking Murchies, Russia Caravan for, 20 years and have found it by far the best blend of any RC that we have tried. Stick to what your nose and tongue tells you. A bit of organic maple syrup and a touch of heavy cream makes for an nice way to start the day when the weather is grey, or when it’s not. I also put in a few slivers of ginger when flu season is around.
Posted on 2018-05-21Murchies most "manly" tea.... Review by 45clive
One of my two favourite teas, both Murchies of course, the other being Queen Victoria. I like the smokiness and overall breadth of flavour of Russian Caravan. You can almost taste the camel sweat through the leather and silk "saddle bags". As manly as a tea can get.
Posted on 2018-01-30Definitely 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 2017-04-01Story Worthy Review by Ryan
If you like to smoke meats and enjoy the smokey smell associated with a day of smoking, this tea might be for you. Drinking this tea reminds me of smoking salmon in my backyard. I don't hate it, but I'd rather smoke salmon than drink this tea. I love the name of this tea and I enjoy having some on hand for people to taste. Definitely a different tasting tea.
Posted on 2016-11-28Love 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 2016-06-24Fantastic 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 2016-05-15Wonderfully 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 2016-01-09Great! 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 2016-01-04Imagine yourself sipping tea brewed on a campfire on the Russian Steppes Review by Sybilla
I had forgotten about the smoky toastiness of this blend that I tried many decades ago, but soon fell under its spell again. I imagine huddling around a smoky fire as darkness falls, wind blowing, wolves howling, on the Russian Steppes. Yummy!
Posted on 2015-11-23beware-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 2014-07-24Never tried or heard of before Review by Kos
The smokey smell reminds me of Camping. Never tasted Lapsang Souchong of tea before. I bought for my Birthday. It is an exciting new flavour to experience. Not in anyway like Orange Pekoe. I think it is time to put Orange Pekoe to bed. A winner for sure! I prefer it with almond milk added. On to my second cup.
Posted on 2014-03-07Excellent on a Wet Coast Day Review by Charlie
This blend of Darjeeling, China Black (Keemun?) and Lapsang Souchong is a perfect blend of strong, mellow, black teas with just enough smoky Lapsang Souchong to make it perfect for a rainy, grey day. Very much a Wet Coast breakfast tea, and it has become one of my favourites.
Posted on 2013-08-295 stars Review by Uncle Tundra
This is one of my top three teas, with a long steep it develops a beautiful smoky sweetness. With Lapsang Souchong and Keemun plus other teas, I find it perfect for iced tea because its inherent sweetness and lightness. I've bought this blend for almost 35 years, since I was a college student
Posted on 2013-06-19Another choice Review by geric
This one is very good but if you like smokey, also try Lapsang Souchong.
Posted on 2012-11-15My favorite! Review by Tundra Ice
This has a nice strong flavor and is consistently my favorite!
Posted on 2012-07-30I am hooked Review by Gitterich
A friend of mine introduced me to this very flavorful tea. Now I am addicted to it, gladly!
Posted on 2012-07-12Very good Review by Velora
Never thought a tea could taste like this, it is manly and smoky. Taste like an adventure.
Posted on 2012-01-30Long-time favourite. Review by Tradairn
My absolute favourite tea for many years.
Posted on 2011-12-30Write your Own Review
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Also Recommended
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.
- Tea bags: steep for 3 - 4 minutes
- 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.