I’ve been in the tea business for five years now as an importer, wholesaler, and retailer with both physical and online outlets. During this period, the number of physical stores has doubled, the number of online retailers has at least tripled, and the quality of tea available in grocery stores … Continue reading
Summer’s here and nothing quenches like a properly prepared glass of iced tea. Taking a cue from progressive-minded bartenders at top restaurants, who are concocting artisanal cocktails featuring fresh juices, herbs, syrups, unique alcohols, and intricate garnishes, tea lovers can follow suit and be creative with cold tea-based beverage making. … Continue reading
Part 2 of a two-part series.To me the abiding mystery about Earl Grey tea is – why on earth is it so popular? It seems like a nice enough tea, one which has its place and gives its pleasure too, but just what makes it an international best-seller? Is it … Continue reading
I recently traveled to the Bay area to visit family, and visited a few teahouses that I’ve long wanted to experience. If you’re looking for a great place to experience and learn about some rare, exceptional Chinese teas, I highly recommend Imperial Tea Court and Teance in Berkeley.After a long … Continue reading
Only the boldest—and most reckless—among tea drinkers have tried it. To drink it, one must possess a certain amount of confidence and savoir faire. No, it’s not some new metropolitan or socialite brew. It’s certifiably wild, rustic, and homespun—it’s the stuff from which Grimm’s Fairy Tales are made! What is … Continue reading
Memory from childhood: I bring a steaming cup of sugared Ceylon Orange Pekoe to my mother’s bed. Her room is dark and silent; a faint bluish light filters through the closed drapes and blinds and a damp facecloth covers her eyes.She removes it and props her upper body against the … Continue reading