The pitter-patter of rain pelts the navy blue umbrella of a gentleman in a dapper suit as he thoughtfully hurries up the steps. He’s careful to not splash water from the rushing stream flowing down the street gutter. A seagull caws overhead seeking some semplance of shelter as it begrudgingly settles under the building awning […]
Recent Posts
One Year Later
Today marks the first anniversary of this written space! It wouldn’t be what it is without you; the curious mind that has chosen to direct their attention to my evolving perception and relationship within the tea. The photo above is of my first gaiwan and has served a reminder that all storms pass and that […]
The Taste of Kyoto: Hojicha Classic From Hojicha Co.
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. […]
The Good Fortune of Jin Kong Que “Golden Peacock”
Back with another partnered blog article with Masters Teas by Adagio, I taste and dive into this well-balanced Yunnan black tea. Its versatility and well-rounded malt and sweet potato attributes make this pleasant year-round. Click on The Good Fortune of Jin Kong Que Tea to see my exploration! Steep well! -Marco
A Complete Guide To: Zhang Ping Shui Xian (漳平水仙茶)
Impressed by all aspects of this compressed oolong from Masters Teas by Adagio, I’ve been fortunate to have shared my thoughts and the history of this tea on their website. Click on A Complete Guide To: Zhang Ping Shui Xian (漳平水仙茶) to see my exploration! Steep well! -Marco
An Exercise In Decisiveness
I grew up in an environment where everything felt predetermined as either right or wrong. Being raised in a boarding school campus and a house with 9 other kids my age meant that topics with innate fluidity in morality and decision-making were automatically placed on the pendulum of good and bad. This created order amid […]
Not Just Tea: The Untold History And Future Of Tea
With over 360 attendees spanning 29 countries throughout the world, I, along with many friends within the community, witnessed four leaders within the industry give their take on the current state of affairs. In wonderful expression, the panel was hosted by Khrys Vaughan of In Her Company, featured Rui Liu of GrassPeopleTree, Elyse Petersen of […]
Shui Jin Gui + Whiskey
Shui Jin Gui yancha boasts chocolate, orange, and mineral rock profiles. Complimented by the spice and oak richness of a whiskey, I experience fruit-forward and depth unknown before. How I made this: Brew 8g/100mL of Shui Jin Gui gong fu style (I encourage you to play with other rock teas as well) for roughly 3 […]
Mental Slumber: Dream Scene Smuggler
It’s time for more sheng puer, and the 50/50 blend of tea materials from He Beng, Yunnan, China, and Guo Gan, Myanmar, is an intriguing experience on paper alone. Enter Dream Scene Smuggler; A 200-300-year-old gushu from Mei Leaf that is a treat to sip alone and share with friends! Not only does the tea […]