The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide To Tea Tasting
Enjoying a classic cuppa is a very common British pastime (often shared at social gatherings or even during times of crisis!). You can take this love one step further with tea tasting, an exciting way to indulge in new flavours and aromas. Carry on reading to find out more.
There are many ways to begin your tea tasting journey, but one of the most popular (and economical) methods is to take advantage of sampler packs. This process gives everyone (from veterans to novices) a chance to sample different flavours from around the world (such as the UK, America or even Japan) without overwhelming each type. In the following guide, I will show you how to take the enriching first step into tea-tasting.
Why Start With Sampler Packs?
Loose tea sampler packs typically include a variety of flavours in miniature packs. They let you sample diverse varieties without buying standard packs so that you can experiment without unnecessary expense or waste. Many people have stated that they prefer this option, as they can observe slight differences when comparing several teas side by side.
Setting Up A Tasting Session
The very first step is to find a clean and quiet area to set up. Gather suitable cups, a kettle, clean water, and, of course, a sampler pack. To avoid taste changes, it can be beneficial to eat in a location with no strong smells (which can influence your taste buds). Additionally, opt for filtered water as it can highlight the quality of the tea. Bring a notebook to log your thoughts and observations.
How To Prepare The Tea
It is important to understand that brew time and temperature can depend on the specific tea. For example, black varieties and oolong (a traditional Chinese tea type) prefer hotter water, whereas white and green varieties require cooler temperatures. It is good practice to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines (typically found on the packet for each sample). This specific technique will also allow each tea to present its respective aroma and flavour profile.
Observing Appearance And Aroma
Always inspect the dry leaves before taking that first sip. The colour, shape and size of the leaves can speak volumes about their origin and how the tea was processed. Once it has been brewed, observe how the leaves open up and how their appearance changes. Furthermore, you can even inhale the leaves and the liquid to reveal different layers of fragrance (such as floral or earthy).
Tasting Each Sample Mindfully
Take small sips and move the liquid around your mouth to fully experience the different flavours. Pay close attention to the front, the mid-palate and the finish. Even though some teas are light and sweet, others are likely to be bold and brisk. When you sample different types, you will be able to discover where each brand and class excels.
Noting Flavour And Texture
Consider making use of a tasting journal, which is an excellent way to preserve impressions while they are still fresh in your mind. Jot down your thoughts and opinions regarding the colour, aroma, taste profiles, texture and the aftertaste of the tea. Taking notes is a fantastic way to create a cue for future tastings (which allows you to gradually build a history of likes, dislikes, and trends you have observed).
The Influence Of Brewing
The brewing time and the temperature of the water can modify the overall flavour – consider making small changes and see what happens. A shorter steep (i.e., how long you soak the tea leaves) will yield a gentler cup, whereas a longer brew can cause bitterness. It is essential to test these variables to refine the brewing method for each variety.
Pairing Tea With Food
Indulging in light food choices when paired with tea can make the flavours appear much more dominant. Between sips, clear the palate with plain crackers and a piece of fruit. On occasion, certain snacks can enhance the tea, revealing hidden new notes. Nevertheless, ensure the food does not overshadow the drink’s unique flavours.
Sharing The Experience
The tea-tasting experience can be much more enjoyable with friends and family! You can discuss your overall thoughts and impressions, discover something new, and even gain a better appreciation of what each sample has to offer (as a collective, one of your party may spot some subtle effects and flavours, which you may have otherwise missed alone). Group tastings can also promote experimentation with teas that one participant might not have tried on their own.
Building Knowledge And Confidence
Even though tasting different tea styles or those from other regions can be a fun exercise, repetition helps build familiarity (whether by type, location, or brand). Over the course of time, you will be able to identify your favourites (and even beginners will gain a newfound confidence to choose teas outside of the sampler packs). This constant quest will make the hobby dynamic and fulfilling as a lifestyle endeavour.
Storing Remaining Samples
Remember to store your tea packs correctly, so they remain as fresh as when you first tasted them. Store in an airtight container, away from heat, light and moisture. It can be good practice to label each sample with the date and type, which helps track freshness. Well-cared-for samples will retain their character and flavour for far longer.
Conclusion
The world of tea tasting is a fantastic hobby, and investing in sampler packs can make it easy for those new to the game! You will be able to make thoughtful observations through mindful comparison, creating a well-deserved entry point to a variety of delicious teas. You will start down a path of knowledge growth, heightened senses, and a new appreciation for the art of tea-making, which you will be able to enjoy for many years to come.
Are you a tea lover? If so, have you ever tried out tea tasting kits? Share your experiences and thoughts below!
