Chaozhou is known for many things, but for tea lovers, it’s the home of Phoenix Dan Cong oolong and Gongfu-style brewing. Tucked into this tea-loving town is a quiet yet influential potter, Yujian Cai , who is shaping more than just clay—he’s shaping the future of how tea is brewed and appreciated. Born in 1996 and raised in a family of ceramicists, Cai quite literally grew up playing with clay. His father and grandfather were both part of Chaozhou’s rich ceramic industry, and he spent his childhood in their studio, surrounded by mud, kilns, and tools. But it wasn’t until he turned 19 that he entered the world of hand-pulled teapots—a craft that would soon become his life’s calling. Why Clay Matters in Chaozhou For those unfamiliar, Chaozhou red clay is prized for its ability to bring out the best in oolong tea. The clay is slightly porous and retains heat beautifully, making it perfect for Gongfu-style brewing. This is especially important when working with Phoenix Dan Cong , ...
Welcome to Cupful Connoisseur, where every sip is a journey through the vibrant tapestry of Tea culture! 🍵 As your resident tea taster and mischief-maker, I'm on a mission to spill the tea (pun intended!) on all things chai-tastic. Join me as I navigate the aromatic alleys of India's finest brews, one cupful at a time. Expect witty musings, quirky anecdotes, and perhaps the occasional spill (of tea, of course!) as we embark on this delightful tea-rrific adventure together. 🌿☕✨