Chinese tea culture is rich, refined, and steeped in history. For centuries, it has been cherished for its serene ambiance and its ability to foster mindfulness. In ancient China, scholars often shared tea in nature or simple settings, pairing it with a book for a moment of self-cultivation. Tea is not only about taste but also about philosophy—there’s wisdom in every sip. So, how can you use traditional Chinese tea ware to perform the perfect tea ceremony?
1.Choosing Tea and Water
Tea Selection:
Each type of tea has its unique flavor profile—green tea is fresh and crisp, black tea is rich and sweet, oolong tea is fragrant and robust, white tea is delicate with a lingering aftertaste, and dark tea is deep and mellow. Choose a tea that suits your mood or preference to enhance the experience.
Water Selection:
As tea enthusiasts say, *“Water is the mother of tea, and the vessel is its father.”* Good tea needs good water. According to the ancient tea master Lu Yu in *The Classic of Tea*, mountain spring water is best, followed by river water, and lastly, well water. Additionally, water temperature is critical—let boiling water cool to about 80-90°C (176-194°F) before brewing.
2. Warming the Tea Ware
Pour hot water over the tea ware to warm it up. This step removes any odors from storage and helps prevent the tea ware from cracking due to sudden temperature changes. It also minimizes the temperature difference between the tea and the vessel, preserving the tea’s original flavor. Moreover, warming the tea ware is a gesture of respect and an essential part of the tea ceremony ritual.
3. Awakening and Rinsing the Tea
Awakening the Tea: Pour hot water over the tea leaves to release their aroma and rehydrate them.
Rinsing the Tea: The first brew is usually discarded to remove any impurities and enhance the tea’s purity.
These steps vary depending on the type and quality of tea, showcasing the depth of Chinese tea culture.
4. Brewing the Tea
Now comes the actual brewing process.
Delicate Leaves:For more tender tea leaves, use a gentle pour to avoid damaging them.
Infusion Timing: Tea is usually steeped for progressively longer times with each brew. Traditionally, tea is not brewed more than six times, as the flavor diminishes after multiple infusions.
5. Pouring the Tea
Hold the lidded bowl (or gaiwan) over a fairness pitcher, allowing the tea to flow smoothly into the pitcher without spilling or overpouring. Ensure the liquid is fully drained to avoid over-extraction, which can make the tea bitter. The act of pouring tea is graceful and reflective of tea culture’s elegance.
6. Serving the Tea
When serving guests:
- Use a tray to present the tea cups.
- Hold the tray with both hands, placing the cup gently in front of the guest’s right hand.
- Fill each cup about 70% full—this prevents spills and conveys respect.
- Serve from left to right, following proper etiquette and age order.
- If a new guest arrives, prepare a fresh pot of tea as a sign of welcome.
7. Expressing Gratitude
When receiving tea, guests typically tap their fingers lightly on the table as a gesture of thanks. When drinking, hold the cup with three fingers (one under the base, two on the sides) for stability and elegance. Bring the cup close to your lips and take small, mindful sips to fully appreciate the tea’s flavor.
Conclusion
A tea ceremony is more than just a drink—it’s an experience that embodies the grace and depth of Chinese culture. Guided by traditional tea ware, every step invites you to connect with history and nature. As the tea comes to an end, the tranquility it brings lingers, offering a moment of inner peace.
Embrace this calmness and return to your daily life with a renewed spirit, looking forward to your next encounter with tea—a timeless journey of taste and reflection.
