Tea Countries

China
The origin of tea plant traces its roots to Yunnan Province in
southern China. Tea culture began here as well, before being exported
to other countries around the world. China is known for it's skill in
producing all the different styles of tea.

India
Serious tea planting in India started with the British and was done in
a plantation style instead of the small farms which are so prevalent in
China. India is known for its black tea production, Darjeeling and
Assam have become household names the world over. Now there is much
experimentation as Indian tea estates produce other types of tea as
well.

Japan
Japan specializes in green tea, with a range of styles quite different from the Chinese greens. Most of their teas are steamed after picking and have a rich, dark green color.

Sri Lanka
Historically known as Ceylon, the tear drop shaped island just south of India has a very productive tea industry. They produce many styles of black tea, most of which is sold at auction in Calcutta. The climate is such that tea can be grown
all year around.

Taiwan
Taiwan makes a range of handcrafted oolongs in a different style than the Chinese oolongs. They are light and green and fragrant as well as more oxidized, darker and almost as full of flavor as a black tea. The high quality teas are sought after by tea aficionados all over the world.

Thailand
Thailand is located in South East Asia, and its northern tip forms part of the golden triangle. This is the region where the tea plant traces its origin to. We find the tea tradition here turning to oolong, which they are growing in the Taiwanese style. The traditional large leaf Yunnan tea trees are more valued across the border in China where they are used to make Pu-erh. The climate is also great for herbs and spices. We work with some local farmers who grow the ingredients found
in some of our Chais.