You might be aware that there is an autumn/winter tea harvest in Taiwan, and some of the finest teas from this season are about to arrive. While spring teas are light and sexy, winter teas have a rich, sometimes more complex and fuller flavor profile. For me, a winter Lishan is something I look forward to all through the spring and summer months. No spring tea can replace itThis season we will no doubt see fewer Alishans because of the destruction to the tea farms in that region during the recent mudslides. We can hope that some will get their teas out and that some tea bushes have not been destroyed. Lishans will hopefully be in better shape.
Teance in Berkeley is having a couple of tea harvest tastings at their hallowed Berkeley tea room this Friday, November 13, and the following Friday, November 20. If you live in the area or can easily make a visit, this will be worth your time. If you have a local tearoom that sources teas from Asia, you will want to pay them a visit in the coming weeks. Please leave a comment for other readers about tea harvest tastings in your area.
As a note: winter teas make great gifts for fellow (and sister) tea lovers. Add a book or a teapot, and you have a fine offering of appreciation. Tea would also be a considerate gift to bring a host if you are spending Thanksgiving as a guest. I am planning to cook this year, so might try a little oolong dusting in the Thanksgiving stuffing. A Lishan might liven things up and could only benefit the feeling of fraternity around the table. It's worth a try on at least a bit of the stuffing for those who like to experiment.
Send me your recipes for stuffing with tea if you have them.....
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