Tea: History, Terroirs, Varieties

Tea has been a hallmark of civilization for millennia, having originated in China and spread across the globe. Throughout the years, a rich art and a complex science have developed around the cultivation and consumption of tea. Drawing on the collective experience of the four tea connoisseurs of Montreal's Camellia Sinensis Tea House, this remarkably detailed guide examines the history and culture of tea, regional varieties, cultivation techniques, and myriad flavor profiles. Also included are interviews with experts throughout the tea industry, from Darjeeling heritage gardens to the great caf%C3%A9s. Replete with beautiful photographs, recipes, and charts detailing everything from tea's medicinal benefits to the Gong Fu Cha drinking ceremony, a more thorough guide would be hard to find. Tea-drinkers and die-hard coffee fans alike will appreciate the subtleties and traditions of this dynamic drink. The authors make a compelling case for tea truly being "the ultimate universal beverage." (Nov.)