Different types of tea require different tea sets, and the choice of tea set varies in different occasions. This article aims to provide tea lovers with a detailed guide to choosing the most suitable tea set for different types of tea and occasions.
1.Introduction to the classification of tea sets
White tea, green tea: glass tea set, white porcelain tea set, etc.
White tea and green tea belong to the light type of tea, soup color is light and elegant, the aroma is quiet, need to pay special attention to maintain the original flavor of the tea leaves when drinking. Glass tea sets are ideal for this type of tea. The transparent texture of the glass tea set can clearly observe the tea leaves in the water stretching process, to appreciate the color of the tea soup changes. At the same time, the glass tea set does not adsorb the tea flavor, and can better maintain the fresh taste of white tea and green tea. White porcelain tea set with its delicate texture and white glaze color, can well set off the white tea, green tea elegant temperament.
Black tea: red glaze tea set, glass tea set, etc.
Black tea has a strong aroma and heavy taste, and the soup color is red and bright. Red glazed tea sets are the first choice for black tea because their unique glaze color complements the color of black tea. The warm texture of the red glaze tea set helps to maintain the temperature of the tea broth and keep the aroma of the tea for a long time. In addition, glass tea sets are also suitable for brewing black tea, especially in occasions where visual effects are emphasized, and clear glass allows people to enjoy the color and texture of black tea.
Oolong tea: purple sand tea set, porcelain tea set, etc.
Oolong tea is between green tea and black tea, with a unique semi-fermented aroma and variable taste, and therefore has greater flexibility in the choice of tea sets. Purple sand tea set is a classic match for oolong tea, the permeability of the purple sand pot makes the tea aroma fully released, and the heat preservation of the wall of the pot is able to maintain the appropriate temperature of the tea soup. At the same time, the adsorption of the purple sand tea set also makes it possible to better conserve the aroma and flavor of the tea after long-term use. Porcelain tea sets are suitable for the light roasting type of oolong tea, and the glaze of white porcelain or celadon can well set off the fresh aroma and soft taste of oolong tea.
Pu-erh Tea: Purple clay pot or white porcelain tea set, etc.
Pu’er tea is known for its mellow taste and aged aroma, and the tea broth is dark in color. Purple clay pots are the best match for Pu-erh tea because of their excellent air permeability and heat preservation, which can fully stimulate the aroma and flavor of Pu-erh tea, making the tea broth more full-bodied and rich. For ripe pu-erh, the purple sand pot can maintain the concentration of the tea broth after several brews. For raw pu-erh, white porcelain tea set is another good choice, which allows one to clearly see the changes in the tea broth, while maintaining the purity of the tea broth in terms of taste.
2.Look at the color, aroma and taste to choose the right tea set
When choosing a tea set, in addition to considering the characteristics of the tea itself, you also need to choose according to your personal tasting preferences. For example, those who like to view the color of the tea broth can choose glass tea sets, while those who focus on the aroma and taste of tea can choose purple sand tea sets. Different materials of tea sets bring different experiences. Glass tea set clear, but poor insulation, suitable for drinking green tea, white tea and other tea fresh tea; purple sand tea set insulation, can adsorb tea, more suitable for drinking oolong tea, puerh tea and other aromatic tea; porcelain tea set texture warm, suitable for a variety of teas, especially suitable for more types of tea when the collocation of the use.
3.Consideration of environmental factors
Highlighting specific themes
In a specific theme of the tea party or occasion, the choice of tea set should not only be consistent with the characteristics of tea, but also harmonize with the environment. For example, in the tea ceremony, the choice of tea utensils should be consistent with the theme of the show, such as the classical style of the show can choose the traditional porcelain tea set or zisha pot, while the modern style of the show can consider the glass tea set or innovative design of the porcelain.
Flower arrangements, incense, tablecloths, etc. in color and texture coordinated with the tea ware
The choice of tea sets should also consider the coordination of the surrounding environment. In the tea party arrangements, flower arrangements, incense, tablecloths and other decorative objects of color and texture should be echoed with the tea set, forming a harmonious and unified visual effect. For example, the use of light-colored tablecloths can be paired with white porcelain tea sets or glass tea sets, creating a fresh and elegant atmosphere; while dark-colored tablecloths can be paired with purple sand tea sets or dark ceramic tea sets, showing a strong classical atmosphere.
Competition: Special Configuration
In a tea ceremony or tea tasting competition, the choice of tea set is particularly important. Competition tea sets should not only be convenient for players to operate, but also be able to accurately show the color and flavor characteristics of the tea. Usually, the competition tea set to use white porcelain tea set, because the white porcelain tea set can truly reflect the color of the tea, and does not adsorb the tea flavor, which helps the judges to accurately judge the quality of the tea.
Tea house demo: full set of configuration, highlighting the characteristics of the tea house
Tea ceremony demonstration needs to be equipped with a full set of tea utensils to show the complete flow of the tea ceremony and the characteristics of the tea house. Different tea ceremony centers can choose the appropriate tea sets according to their own themes and styles. For example, the traditional style of tea ceremony hall can choose purple sand pot with Chinese tea cups, creating a simple and elegant atmosphere; while the modern style of tea ceremony hall can choose a strong sense of design glass tea set or innovative ceramic tea set, highlighting the sense of fashion and art.
Tea house daily business: common configuration
In the daily business of the teahouse, the choice of tea set should consider both practicality and aesthetics. Commonly used configuration usually includes teapots, tea cups, tea tray, tea funnels and other basic tea utensils, in addition to different types of tea can also be equipped with the corresponding tea utensils, such as white tea, green tea with glass or white porcelain cups, black tea with red glazed cups, oolong tea and Pu’er tea with purple sand pots. This configuration can ensure the quality of tea, while enhancing the customer’s tea tasting experience.
Themed tea parties such as the No Self Tea Party: abbreviated configuration
Theme tea parties such as the No Me Tea Party usually pursue a simple, rustic tea ceremony style, so the selection of tea sets should also follow the principle of simplicity. You can choose a purple clay pot or white porcelain pot, with a small number of simple teacups, without the need for complex decorations and superfluous accessories. This abbreviated configuration allows participants to focus more on the tea itself, and to feel the tranquility and purity of the tea ceremony.
The choice of tea set is not only for practicality, but also an artistic expression. Different types of tea, different occasions have different requirements for tea utensils, and choosing the right tea utensils can greatly enhance the experience of tasting tea and better demonstrate the richness of tea culture. When choosing tea sets, it is important to consider both the characteristics of the tea and the environment, as well as the individual’s drinking habits. The diversity and artistry of tea set selection brings infinite possibilities for every tea tasting, making the tea ceremony a double enjoyment for the senses and the mind.