Linda Gaylard is a tea sommelier; a profession most people probably don't know exists. She writes, "The tea sommelier has the challenging task of convincing tea drinkers that there is much more to tea than a mug and a tea bag. Beyond the bag there is mystery, history, travel, industry, culture, and ceremony: a whole new world to explore."
Gaylard's book reveals the history, mystery, culture, and ceremony of tea. First is an overview of what tea is: the plant, its varieties, and colors. Gaylard explains the anatomy of the tea plant, its growth cycle, harvest, and terroir. A full page is devoted to each major tea-producing country: information is provided about that country's contribution to world tea production, harvest times, what tea varieties are grown, and more.
The book then turns to culture and ceremony. Gaylard walks readers through tea ceremonies of China, Japan, Korea, Russia, and Morocco. I loved seeing pictures of tea cups and pots from around the world.
The final section of the book is devoted to recipes. The recipes are divided up by type of tea: black, green, white... And they include cool, hot, non-alcoholic, and alcoholic brews. I liked the section on tisanes and herbal infusions useful. I want to expand my garden and grow herbs and spices to infuse in teas.
I can't wait to try new teas with friends. For young tea enthusiasts, I reccomend Fancy Nancy Tea Parties
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