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Experience the Tradition
Let us help you increase your knowledge and appreciation of tea. Email imperial@imperialtea.com or call us at 800-788-6080. Reservations are required, so please contact us as soon as possible.
Gaiwan Tea Presentation
The gaiwan, China's classic covered teacup, represents the traditional
way of sharing tea informally with friends. In this service tea selections
are presented in individual cups, allowing everyone to drink the same
type of tea or try something different. The versatility of the gaiwan
makes it the perfect vessel for traditional tea preparation. Its elegant
utility encompasses all varieties of tea and provides the perfect setting
for visual appreciation, aromatic enjoyment, and tasting pleasure. (No
appointment necessary.)
Gong Fu Tea Presentation
The formal presentation of tea in China is known as gong fu.
The term denotes skill from practice - the idea being that expertise
is derived not so much from learning as from experience, that is: practice
(which we could say in this case does not "make perfect",
but which is instead an end in itself). While literally gong fu could
signify the serious practice of any art form, today gong fu is generally used to refer to the more or less elaborate preparation of tea using miniature unglazed wares made of the special zi sha (purple
sand) clay of Yixing (pronounced "yee-shing") in Jiangsu
province. Indeed, success in gong fu tea requires patience, attention
to detail, and, of course, extended practice, but the rewards are well
worth the effort. For those just starting out, we are happy to demonstrate
the necessary techniques and answer any questions you may have. (No
appointment necessary.) 2 person minimum.
Introduction to Tea & the Teahouse
Space willl be reserved for your group - whose members will be welcomed
as honored guests into the famous San Francisco teahouse. As tea is
prepared, a guide will point out distinctive features of the room and
give a brief introduction to Imperial Tea Court and its unique products.
The fascinating story of tea itself follows - tracing the famous herb's
history from its legendary origins to the present day. Q. & A. and
a tasting of our famous Jasmine Pearl tea concludes the visit. (Reservation
required.)
Introductory Tea Tasting
This service introduces the tea drinker to the various aspects of gaiwan (covered bowl) tea preparation. Because of its elegance,functionality and ease of use, the gaiwan has long been recognized in
China as the universal tea making tool. A server will be assigned to
your table to assist you and your guests with your selections and to
present the tea and answer any questions you may have. (Reservation
required, 4 person minimum.) Includes tea snack selection.
Formal Tea Presentation
Following an introductory talk on the historical and cultural significance
of tea, formal presentations will be made demonstrating the two major
forms of tea brewing in turn: gaiwan and gong fu. These services usually
showcase superlative examples of green, oolong, or pu erh teas, but other selections
are available. (Reservation required, 4 person minimum.) Includes tea snack selection.
Seasonal Presentation
A general introduction to tea and the unique points of seasonal variation
is followed by a special presentation of the season's choicest (and
often rarest) tea treasures. (Service includes 4 to 5 teas, subject
to availability and seasonal variation.) All teas are prepared "Imperial"
style in gaiwans and served in individual tasting cups. (72 hour advance
notice required.)
Varietal Presentation
This uniquely educational program opens with a general discussion of
the history of tea and encompasses the different periods and styles
of tea and traces the origins of the modern varieties as we know them
today. The following service includes "Imperial" style presentations
of representatives of the five major tea categories: Green, Oolong, Black, Puerh and Scented.
(72 hours advance notice required.)
Imperial Tea
Known simply as "the full treatment", this utterly unique
experience takes 2-3 hours and features five individual tea services
- representing the participant's ultimate dedication to what in Chinese
is called Cha Tao, "the way of tea". Honored guests are welcomed
with San Dao Cha, an expression of the "Three Course Tea"
of Yunnan province: the birthplace and homeland of tea. The teas are
served in succession and represent the joyfulness of the gathering,
the richness and complexity of life, and finally the fruits of our labor
and accomplishments. A light dim-sum luncheon follows, featuring a fresh
selection of sweet and savory dumplings accompanyied by a tall glass
of our unique Imperial Red iced tea. The final presentation opens with
a discussion of the ceremonial, philosophical and practical aspects
of gong fu tea and features a service of our most famous tea, the legendary
"Monkey-Picked" Tieguanyin of Anxi county, in Fujian province.
(One week advance notice required, 10 person minimum.) |
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