The Tealover's Companion: A Guide to Teas Throughout the World

Tea is an international drink, both in terms of its origins and popularity, and has a colourful and fascinating story to tell. This handsome illustrated reference is a guide to all major varieties of tea favourites such as Darjeeling, Assam and Earl Grey, as well as the more acquired tastes of Lapsang Souchong, Keemun and Nilgiri, and some beautiful and unusual teas which are more rare. Background: An introduction covers the history of tea, how tea is traded today, production, blending, brewing, storing and organic teas. The Directory: The main part of the book is a directory of teas grouped by country of production, and subdivided by region, accompanied by a map showing the main tea-growing areas. The countries covered are: China; Japan; Nepal; India; Sri Lanka; Taiwan; Georgia; Kenya; Malawi; Other producing countries Each individual tea is illustrated by close-up photography of the dry leaf, wet leaf and infusion, with an accompanying description of characteristics and brewing tips to enjoy the variety at its best. Feature boxes: This book includes special features on How Tea is Traded; The Chemistry of Tea; Tea-leaf Reading; Tea and Health; Teas Throughout the Day (suggestions on which variety of tea to take at different points during the day, and to suit your mood); and Tea Rituals Around the World. Other illustrations include photography of teaware, equipment, tea plantations, paintings of tea scenes, posters, caddy designs, and other tea ephemera.