Looking at my phone, I saw a message from Annie Xiang, complete with an introduction or her experiences and passion for tea. She was pivoting from a career in tax accounting to the wilderness of tea leaves as we met over many infusions of tea at a local tea house. From that first conversation, I […]
Gifted by the kind team at Tezumi, this 300mL Chawan has been a pleasure to use in my matcha preparation rotation. The hakame brush stroke presents an added level of artistry to the experience of whisking any matcha, and the beige color allows the green vibrancy to really pop! About TezumiConsisting of three tea-enthusiasts, David, […]
It’s difficult to believe that another year is coming to a close. I remember last December I sat with a kyusu of hojicha, recalling fond memories of numerous teas while looking forward to a new year. 2020 has been a different year for us all, and the times I searched for a tea to fit […]
Dancing green brilliance and a deeply hidden display of potent aromatics await all who dive into this single-cultivar matcha from Kettl Tea. I’ve had a great deal of time away from preparing matcha, so tasting this brings a renewed clarity to the palate as I savor each of three sips this rich tea has to […]
The streets of Kyoto not only fill the air with the humming din of vehicles passing by but also the pleasant aromas of freshly roasted green tea. Nearly a year ago I reflected upon the Hojicha Hanamitsu and found autumnal comfort from its rich, smoky, depth of flavor, and vanilla smoothness. This time is different. […]
When I dove into my Foundations: A Look into Longjing, I had no idea it would come across the eyes of Zhao Lu, Co-founder of TEA.L. Founded on the principle of togetherness, he and his partner have used the values rooted in respect and reverence toward individuality and the celebration of both people and tea […]
I appreciate the strength Japanese tea provides in my tea journey, and seek the bold, balanced flavors sought through fertile cultivation and precision in processing techniques. When Senbird Tea, a Japanese family-owned tea business who utilizes independent tea farmers reached out to offer a balanced selection of teas to try, I felt the calling to […]
There’s excitement in the changing of seasons, and right now I look forward to Autumn’s arrival in the midwest. Brisk mornings compliment warm rich sunlight and leaves gracefully end their lush emerald display in an encore of vibrant yellows and cherry reds. My tastes in tea align to match the elements and experiences of another […]
Longjing tea is a staple when it comes to Chinese green teas. Known for its nuttier profile and smooth taste, it presents a different side of the flavor spectrum when compared to Japanese green teas like Sencha or Gyokuro. Panned-roasted by hand and lighter in color with yellows and sun-lit greens, it’s visually recognized by […]
STEAP'D 