1. Lapsang Souchong (Black tea)
Why now
- Known for wake-up and energy — the same territory.
- Flavor notes in common: smoky and woody.
- Also a black tea and moderate in caffeine — it fits the exact same moments.
How to brew
If you don't have it
Any of the other picks on this page covers similar ground.
Tea fact
Lapsang Souchong was created almost by accident when workers dried tea over pine fires to speed processing; true Lapsang comes only from Tongmu village in Fujian.
If you're looking for "something similar to Russian Caravan", try Lapsang Souchong.