This is the Tongmu Lapsang Bubble Milk Tea ($7.90, 70% sweetness, less ice) from Molly Tea, made with a lapsang souchong tea base.

The beverage had an opaque tan hue with black pearls at the base and a pronounced smoky aroma. When consumed chilled, it opened with the distinctive smoky notes of lapsang souchong, immediately recognisable and initially mellow, before deepening into a richer woodsmoke character through the body. Towards the finish, the smokiness developed with a subtle mineral quality, yet without imparting astringency or bitterness at any point. At the recommended sweetness and ice levels, the flavour was balanced and refreshing, with the soft sweetness complementing the smokiness in a way reminiscent of dried longan. The pearls were toothsome, offering a touch of caramelised sweetness that added depth to the smoky tea base.

Overall, an interesting and well-executed expression of lapsang souchong, offering a distinct addition to the Sydney bubble tea scene, though not one to repurchase over other options on their menu.

This Tongmu Lapsang Milk Tea was purchased from Molly Tea in Sydney, Australia in September 2025.