During the early 19th century, many black and oolong teas had a characteristic woody, smoked flavor, due to the use of wood-fired woks. At the request of English merchants, this smoking process was performed intentionally. In the smokehouse, tea leaves are hung from bamboo baskets above smoking wood-pine ash. The flavor is very smoky, enjoyably smooth and uplifting. Compliments well with slightly spicy and oily foods. You?ll either love it or hate it.