Smooth, but with a pleasantly full body. There’s absolutely no need to add milk and sugar, though to each their own. I don’t like my black teas too malty or harsh, but I don’t like them weak either. This turns out to be a perfect match for me. If your palate doesn’t appreciate being jolted awake in the mornings, yet you hardly want to be starting your day off without caffeine, you might like this tea.