Tea Discovery

Our introduction to tea where you will learn what tea is, where tea is grown and produced, and how tea becomes white, green, oolong, black and pu’erh. You’ll learn the difference between tea and tisane (and does it matter?). We’ll taste teas from the top five tea producing Asian countries: China, Taiwan, Japan, Sri Lanka and India. There is fun history, myth and lore shared—you won’t be bored. This class is recommended for all people curious about tea, and especially helpful if taken prior to our other classes. Class cost: $20.  Class is 1-1/2 hours long.  It’s a great class for groups including company team-building groups.

Children’s Tea Class

Kids love tea!  In this class the participants will learn what the tea plant (camellia sinensis) is, where it’s grown, how the different types of tea taste and what makes them taste that way.  They will also try rooibos and some of the popular fruit teas.  This class will appeal to children from ages six to 11.  The class will last 1-1/2 hours and will include some popular tea treats.  Cost: $20 per participant.

Experience Green Teas

Have you found a green tea you truly love? I’m sure we have one for you. Explore the world of green teas from China, Japan and Korea. Each of the three countries has very different green tea styles, but all are magnificent. You’ll visit the process that keeps green tea…well, green! You’ll learn many of the green tea names and taste up to seven teas in this class. Class cost $20. Class is 1-1/2 hours long.

Experience White Teas

There is so much talk these days about white tea…but what is it? In this class you learn what white tea is, and how it is best enjoyed. You will try traditional white teas from China and explore some contemporary versions from other countries. White tea makes an excellent flavored and scented tea so we’ll try some of those too. You will taste six to seven teas in this class. Class cost: $20. Class is 1-1/2 hours long.

Discover Pu’erh and Dark Teas

What exactly is pu’erh tea? There is mystery and history with this tea that is coveted by many, while confusing to some. Pu’erh (pronounced kind of like “poor”), is a fermented tea that improves with age. You’ll learn about the types of pu’erh, where it is grown and produced, the basics of how it is crafted and taste four to five of these earthy teas. Class cost: $25. Class is 1-1/2 hours long.

Experience Oolong Teas

The spectrum of oolong teas from China and Taiwan spans Pouchong, Jade oolong, Amber and Champagne oolongs. If you have never experienced the intoxicating scent and taste of an Oriental Beauty or Iron Goddess of Mercy, this is the class for you. Crafting good oolong teas is truly an art and requires a very experienced tea master to produce—these are not your traditional Chinese restaurant oolongs. We will explore six to seven different teas in this class. Class cost: $25. Class is 1-1/2 hours long.

Experience Black Teas

Here is where you really learn the difference between the black tea from a tea bag and the magnificent single origin teas from China, Sri Lanka and India. We’ll explore how black tea is made and the history of black tea (legend has it…it was a mistake). You’ll try different flushes of the same tea and learn how terrior (love that wine term) impacts tea flavor and complexity. Seven different black teas will be tasted in this class. Class cost $20. Class is 1-1/2 hours long.

A Special Mother’s Day Weekend Tea Experience May 12, 2012

What would be more fun than giving mom a fun, new experience for her special day!  This will be a combination class and morning tea event for only 8 people.  We will do a lot of our Tea Discovery exploration–tasting different teas while enjoying traditional tea treats.  Each participant will take home a sampler of teas.  This event begins at 10AM and is 1-1/2 to 2 hours.  Cost: $30 per person.  Reservations are required–call Roberta at 206-406-9838 to reserve.

Exploring Rooibos, Honey Bush and Tulsi Teas

These are three different plants and this is a lot to cover in one class, but you’ll have a great introduction to these non-caffeinated cousins of real tea (camellia sinensis). Many people do not want caffeine and are looking for an alternative warm drink in the evening. You’ll learn the basics of what each plant is and taste six of the steeped teas. Let’s explore some of the blends and exciting flavors on the market! Class cost $20. Class is 1-1/2 hours long.

Custom Tea Blending Workshop

Have you ever wanted to blend your own signature tea? These really fun and interactive workshops let you create your own personal flavored tea blend. There are separate blending classes for black teas, green and white teas, and herbals. We’ll discuss the basics of blending then set you free to blend your favorite flavors using tea, herbs and botanicals. When you finish your creation, you will package 2 ounces and take it home. What a great holiday gift to make for friends and family—your own personal custom tea blend! Workshop cost: $45 (materials drive the higher cost of this workshop—but it’s worth it!) Class is 1-1/2 hours.