Skip to main content

Unraveling the Tale of Tea through 'The Tea Cyclopedia'

 

Tea is more than just a drink- it's a passion, an addiction, and even a philosophy. Dr. Keith Souter explores its fascinating journey from ancient origins in the East to its profound impact on the West.

"The Tea Cyclopedia" a book I recently came across, is a must-read for tea enthusiasts, delving into tea's history, politics, health benefits, and cultural significance.
Each chapter begins with insightful quotes, capturing the essence of tea's timeless allure. This remarkable beverage has not only brought people together in times of need but also sparked conflicts like the Sri Lankan Civil War and the Boston Tea Party.
Today, diverse cultures have their unique ways of enjoying tea, making the ritual both intriguing and rewarding.
This detailed guide offers a rediscovery of tea, its cultivation, and its global influence.
"The Tea Cyclopedia" is a captivating tribute to the leaf that has inspired and connected people for over two thousand years.




Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Scenes From Bollywood Movies Where ‘Ek Cup Chai’ Played The Lead Role

Tea time in Hindi cinema is not merely a ritual; it's a flavorful narrative that steeps into the essence of storytelling, adding warmth and authenticity to scenes that range from profound to light-hearted. From musings about life over a cup of tea to the charm of chai in various settings, Bollywood has masterfully blended this beloved beverage into its cinematic tapestry. In the classic film "Mili," the legendary Amitabh Bachchan once mused about the most consumed drink, perhaps hinting at the universal appeal and comfort that a simple cup of tea holds. Meanwhile, Tina Munim, in "Souten," playfully speculated about a 'Meet the Parents' scenario over a cup of tea, showcasing how chai has found its place in the heart of pivotal life moments. Tea, often hailed as the great equalizer, has a unique role in bringing people together. Aamir Khan, in one memorable Bollywood scene of “Andaz Apna Apna”, declared, "Do dost ek pyaale se chai peeyenge," emph...

Cups and Canvases : Tea’s Timeless Presence on Canvas

I came across a piece recently—an article tracing tea’s quiet presence in art across centuries by Magda Michalska. It wasn’t loud or showy, just… observant. The kind of writing that lingers like steam from a just-poured cup. As a tea sommelier, I’ve always believed tea lives in the in-between: between words, between people, between stories. This article captured that feeling beautifully. Because here’s the thing: tea doesn’t need attention to matter. It’s not a performance. It doesn’t arrive demanding notice. It slips into a room softly, settles on the table, and stays. Artists have painted it for years—not for drama, but for presence. A held moment. A remembered gesture. A shape in the light. Reading it, I felt like I’d found a reflection of what I see every day—how tea, even in stillness, tells stories. Theo van Rysselberghe – Summer Afternoon (Tea in the Garden) (1901) Neo-Impressionist garden chatter, served pointillist-style Summer Afternoon (Tea in the Garden) , 1901-  Curr...

International Tea Day: A Brew-tiful Excuse for a Holiday

Happy International Tea Day! Yes, it's that one glorious day of the year when we put aside our differences, raise our mismatched mugs, and toast to the humble tea leaf. Because nothing screams unity like a steaming cup of barely-flavored hot water, right? Isn't it just heartwarming to know that while the world is busy grappling with climate change, economic crises, and global pandemics, we can all still come together and celebrate a beverage? Yes, folks, tea is here to save the day. Not world peace or clean energy, but tea. Let’s take a moment to appreciate the versatility of tea. It’s the beverage that says, "Hey, I can be anything you want me to be." Want a caffeine kick without the coffee jitters? Tea. Need a natural remedy for that pesky cold? Tea. Trying to impress your friends with a faux-sophisticated ritual? Tea again. It's the Swiss Army knife of drinks, and boy, do we love pretending it’s a miracle cure-all. International Tea Day isn't just about sip...