Tea Mixology
Tea mixology is the art of respectfully combining nature’s most indulgent herbal beverage, with other ingredients to produce tea inspired cocktails, mocktails and shooters. Mixing different ingredients to produce harmony on the palate is an art in itself. Mixology with tea however is even more demanding on the expertise and commitment of the tea mixologist for it requires an understanding of the unique identity of each tea. Camellia Sinensis, the plant from whose tender buds tea is handpicked when making real tea, produces a spectrum of taste, flavour, strength, colour, aroma and texture. That infinite variety is at the heart of indulgence in tea and is crafted entirely by nature. The influence of soil, moisture, wind conditions, sunshine, temperature defines the character of tea. The art of tea making nurtures these characteristics but cannot redefine what Nature intended. Tea effectively changes with the weather, with tea from one valley for example, with certain characteristics, being entirely different even days later as the weather changes. Respecting that blessing of Nature and the often delicate flavours and aromas that form the personality of a tea is what makes the task of the tea mixologist especially complex. As a family with a commitment to tea that is defined by Dilmah Founder Merrill J. Fernando’s lifelong dedication to the herb, we present a selection of tea inspired beverages which interpret this traditional herb in a unique form. Tea and the heritage and terroir that real tea shares with one who appreciates tea, are the essence of indulgence in this ancient herbal beverage. Whilst respecting that heritage and terroir, the combination of tea with other drinks and ingredients to produce a pleasurable result is the objective of this book. May the natural goodness in tea, it’s inspiring taste, flavour and aroma be as much a source of goodness, solace, friendship and pleasure to you as it has been to us.
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