Become a Tea Connoisseur

If you are involved in the regular drinking of tea in any way, you've likely heard the term 'tea connoisseur.' I'm sure the meaning of this term can vary quite a bit from person to person, but most will agree that a tea connoisseur is someone who is really into tea. They will know about the different types, and processes, and subtleties....and of course they will love to drink tea.

If you love tea, but don't feel you are quite there yet and want to become a tea connoisseur, here are a few things to keep in mind as you make the transition.

First, ditch those tea bags and start drinking loose leaf. Any real connoisseur or expert will never let you into the club if you aren't drinking it as it was meant to be enjoyed. Loose leaf tea produces a much more flavorful cup, and it is a must if you are ever to obtain connoisseur status. When the water circulates around the leaves it creates a flavor that just can't be matched in bag form. Not to mention, the health benefits are dramatically increased when it is left in its natural state.

Second, learn a lot about tea. You can't really be considered a connoisseur of anything if you don't know a lot about the topic. Read as much as you can about the history and cultivation of tea leaves. Learn about how it is processed. Learn about all the different tea producing parts of the world. Learn about all of the different varieties and sub-varieties. Learn about the best ways to prepare each different type. In short, learn all there is to know about the world of tea.

Third, keep in mind that to be a real connoisseur, you have to enjoy yourself. You may have an image of the snobby, nose in the air tea drinker, but you don't have to be that way. People have been drinking tea for thousands of years. It is a way of life in many cultures, and there are thousands upon thousands of tea drinkers who came before you who are very down to earth.