The Story of Tea: A Cultural History and Drinking Guide

by Mary Lou Heiss

Hardcover, 2007

Collection

Publication

Ten Speed Press (2007), Edition: First Printing, 432 pages

Description

"Whether it's a delicate green tea or a bracing Assam black, a cup of tea is a complex brew of art and industry, tradition and revolution, East and West. In this sweeping tour through the world of tea, veteran tea traders Mary Lou Heiss and Robert J. Heiss chronicle tea's influence across the globe and provide a complete reference for choosing, drinking, and enjoying this beverage. The Story of Teabegins with a journey along the tea trail, from the lush forests of China, where tea cultivation first flourished, to the Buddhist temples of Japan, to the vast tea gardens of India, and beyond. Offering an insider'­s view of all aspects of tea trade, the Heisses examine Camellia sinensis, the tea bush, and show how subtle differences in territory and production contribute to the diversity of color, flavor, and quality in brewed tea. They profile more than thirty essential tea varietals, provide an in depth guide to tasting and brewing, and survey the customs and crafts associated with tea. Sharing the latest research, they discuss tea's health benefits and developments in organic production and fair trade practices. Finally, they present ten sweet and savory recipes, includi… (more)

Media reviews

". . . the Heisses offer a wealth of cultural, historical, and scientific information about tea and tea appreciation. Most compellingly, perhaps, is that their passion for tea is evident on almost every page."

User reviews

LibraryThing member drneutron
Who knew tea could be so interesting? The Story of Tea gives insight into how tea is grown and prepared for market, where it came from, and how to make a perfect cup. Clearly, the authors know their tea, and I'm now in search of a local tea merchant to start sampling some of the brews they rave
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about!
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LibraryThing member jasonwitt
This is the ultimate reference book for tea. There are other rather complete books on tea out there, but nothing like this. It's unmatched by any other tea book.

Tea experts and afficionados tend to consider this book the thorough guide through the tea world that it is. Mary Lou Heiss is one of
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those experts and has shared her wealth of information with the rest in one volume. An indispensable and definitive resource.
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LibraryThing member b22johansen
One of the most comprehensive resources on tea. This book has it all. From the production of tea in different regions to distinguishing various varieties to even cooking with tea, this book contains literally everything that relates to tea. Its in-depth treatment of the various countries and their
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tea cultures is one of my favorite sections as well as the section that thoroughly discusses the production of various styles of tea.
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Pages

432

ISBN

9781580087452
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