Tea is more than a beverage; it has played a large role in shaping culture and tradition. It is a ritual that requires thoughtful preparation and careful attention.
China is home to one of the most storied tea traditions, with ceremonial tea focusing on revealing true personality. Outside of China, teas like Assam and Darjeeling were developed by experimenting with growing Chinese varieties in India.
Origin
The history of tea is closely linked to the culture of China. Legend has it that the first cup of tea was drunk by the Chinese emperor Shen Nong in 2737 B.C.E when a leaf of the plant Camellia sinensis fell into boiling water he was brewing for drinking. He was impressed by its pleasant taste and restorative qualities.
The drink grew in popularity during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 A.D), and the first book on the subject, the Classics of Tea by Lu Yu, was published. During this time, it was also introduced to Korea and Japan.
In Europe, tea became known in the 16th century when a Cossack commander named Vassili Starkov brought four poods (65-70 kg) of it back to Russia for the Tsar Michael I. It was not until the 17th century, however, that it became regularly imported to Russia via a camel caravan. By this time, it was a popular beverage in England and France and had appeared in European apothecaries by 1657.
Types
Tea is commonly consumed with milk and sugar. It is also served as an alcoholic beverage in a wide variety of cocktails, and is often used for medicinal purposes.
There are four major types of true tea: black, green, oolong and white teas, as well as herbal infusions not made from the camellia sinensis plant. Each type of tea has its own distinct health benefit profile and processing steps.
Generally speaking, the leaves are harvested and immediately either steamed or pan-fired to stop oxidation. This gives the leaves their bright green color and light vegetal flavors.
Sheng pu-erh starts off as more or less a green tea, but through a slow and traditional process, it matures into a deliciously rich, earthy brew. Darjeeling black tea, on the other hand, starts out as a more or less green tea but goes through heavy fermentation that lends it deep, grassy notes that are not quite like anything else.
Symbolism
Tea takes on many symbols and meanings. It’s used for social gatherings and special occasions, and is also a way to demonstrate hospitality. The culture of tea has been a part of the cultures of people around the world for centuries.
In Britain, tea became associated with respectability when it was brought to the middle classes. It’s now the second most consumed drink after coffee. Tea has a long history of being a symbol of power, and Standage explores its enduring association with political influence.
The tea plant itself is a powerful symbol, and tea utensils have been used to convey different messages. For instance, the squat tea pot represents equality.
Chinese and Japanese spiritual traditions have a strong connection to tea. Chan Buddhism, which later evolved into Zen, has a particular affinity with the beverage. The wabi sabi aesthetic, which promotes simplicity and intentional imperfection, is an integral part of the Japanese tea ceremony. The art of reading tea leaves is also a form of divination.
Consumption
In China, tea has been used as a symbol of social status. Younger generations are expected to serve elders tea, as it is a way to show respect and gratitude. It is also a way to promote health through tea’s antioxidant properties.
The Chinese Tea Ceremony is very structured with specific brewing techniques. It is considered a form of art that focuses on mindfulness and respect for nature. Gongfu tea is a highly respected tea ceremony that requires great skill to perfect.
Western culture has been greatly influenced by tea. Many tea-related events are associated with hospitality, such as afternoon tea and high tea. Traditionally in the UK, it is customary to offer a cup of tea soon after guests arrive. In fact, the UK has one of the highest per capita consumptions of tea in the world! This is partly due to the popularity of British-style tea rooms, where people can enjoy a traditional high tea with scones and clotted cream.