Gourmet Tea - A New Western Phenomenon
Julian Tai
October 14, 2009
Here in the west, it used to be that tea came in little white bags. We didn´t have any gourmet tea information; we didn´t even know it existed! Some of us drank it in the mornings, or as a soothing beverage when we were sick. We probably didn´t even know what kind we were drinking! These days, however, we are realizing what the people of Asia have known for centuries. Tea comes in many colors, strengths and varieties. It is best when brewed from loose leaves, and there is a different kind for every occasion.
What's It?
The first thing to know about tea is that it all comes from the same plant, the camellia sinensis tree that is native to parts of South and Southeast Asia, although it is now cultivated in many parts of the world. As with any plant, varieties depend somewhat on climate, altitude and breeding. Different types of tea are harvested at different times. In addition, some teas are made from the leaves of the plant, some from the buds, and some are a combination of the two. Sound complicated? We haven´t even gotten to the processing yet! Here´s some gourmet tea information to help you determine what you´re drinking.
The tea that most of are familiar with is black tea. This is the most processed of all the teas. It is first dried and then fermented after picking. This fermentation process gives it the dark color and rich taste we associate with black tea. Although this is a healthy beverage, some of the amazing nutrients of the plant are depleted through this process.
Oolong tea, which many of us would recognize from our favorite Chinese restaurant, is minimally fermented. It tends to be sweet and mild, and has more health benefits than black tea.
Green tea has become a favorite among tea drinkers worldwide. It is not fermented at all, and has a bright, grassy, fresh flavor and small amounts of caffeine. It is full of antioxidants and has been proven to reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
White tea is still rare in many places. It is made from the buds of the tea plant. White tea is picked when the buds are still furled and covered with fine silvery hair, hence the name.
The varieties of gourmet tea are endless. The very best way to learn about all these kinds of tea, and discover which one is your new favorite, is by trying them! Experiment
with different kinds. Remember, the very best quality teas are sold loose. Brewing your own cup of tea is not only the best way to ensure a good beverage, it is a terrific experience! Visit your local tea shop today and start your tea adventure.
When you explore the fascinating stories of oolong tea origins, processing and varieties, you will understand why it is a firm connoisseur favourites.
Are you ready to explode the myths of white tea?
Find out which is the best green tea beverage to drink and what are the recommended brands.
What's It?
The first thing to know about tea is that it all comes from the same plant, the camellia sinensis tree that is native to parts of South and Southeast Asia, although it is now cultivated in many parts of the world. As with any plant, varieties depend somewhat on climate, altitude and breeding. Different types of tea are harvested at different times. In addition, some teas are made from the leaves of the plant, some from the buds, and some are a combination of the two. Sound complicated? We haven´t even gotten to the processing yet! Here´s some gourmet tea information to help you determine what you´re drinking.
The tea that most of are familiar with is black tea. This is the most processed of all the teas. It is first dried and then fermented after picking. This fermentation process gives it the dark color and rich taste we associate with black tea. Although this is a healthy beverage, some of the amazing nutrients of the plant are depleted through this process.
Oolong tea, which many of us would recognize from our favorite Chinese restaurant, is minimally fermented. It tends to be sweet and mild, and has more health benefits than black tea.
Green tea has become a favorite among tea drinkers worldwide. It is not fermented at all, and has a bright, grassy, fresh flavor and small amounts of caffeine. It is full of antioxidants and has been proven to reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
White tea is still rare in many places. It is made from the buds of the tea plant. White tea is picked when the buds are still furled and covered with fine silvery hair, hence the name.
The varieties of gourmet tea are endless. The very best way to learn about all these kinds of tea, and discover which one is your new favorite, is by trying them! Experiment
with different kinds. Remember, the very best quality teas are sold loose. Brewing your own cup of tea is not only the best way to ensure a good beverage, it is a terrific experience! Visit your local tea shop today and start your tea adventure.
When you explore the fascinating stories of oolong tea origins, processing and varieties, you will understand why it is a firm connoisseur favourites.
Are you ready to explode the myths of white tea?
Find out which is the best green tea beverage to drink and what are the recommended brands.
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