{"title":"Single Estate Tea","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere at Comins Tea we aim to make it simple for you to find and enjoy fine single estate tea. Our collection consists of fine loose leaf teas, selected because we believe they are excellent representations of their type. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe take a personal approach to sourcing our teas. Knowing and sharing exactly where our fine teas come from and how to prepare them is extremely important to us. We want to make sure that the estates we buy from, as well as producing single estate tea with great flavour, fit with our ethos of fairness in all stages of the process. This approach takes time and explains why you won’t find hundreds of teas in our teahouse.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"tea-bowls","title":"Comins Tea Bowl","description":"\u003cp\u003eOur British made porcelain tea bowls are hand thrown on a potter's wheel by Natcha in Dalston London making every tea bowl unique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInspired by the simple bowls we have admired in many tea houses, our tea bowls are designed for everyday use but are also elegant enough to make tea time special.  They have been with us from the first days of Comins \u0026amp; we are delighted to have a new talented tea bowl collaborator right here in the UK \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInspired by the simple bowls we have admired in many tea houses, our tea bowls are designed for everyday use but are also elegant enough to make tea time special. Holding up to 200ml of tea, they are around 8cm high and 9cm wide at the top. Made from British porcelain in Cambridge, each is marked with our cup and cat logo and most importantly, they make our tea taste great. After being hand thrown the bowls are dried, then are fired once, glazed and re-fired to a high temperature to make them hard and glossy. A logo is applied by hand and the bowls are fired a third time. Due to the many processes involved in the production of our handmade tea bowls, slight variations may occur in their size and finish. These variations enhance the individuality and charm of each item.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"blue-background\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMeet the Maker\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.racheldormorceramics.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Rachel Dormor\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eRachel Dormor\u003c\/a\u003e is an apprentice-trained potter who works mainly with porcelain to create thrown functional tableware. Since first using the potter’s wheel at the age of fourteen, Rachel has come a long way and this year, two decades on, launched her collection at four international shows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving first spotted Rachel’s work at the Origin London Craft Fair and instantly been captivated by it we knew she was the right person to make our tea bowls. Her combination of elegance and everyday functionality matched our vision exactly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApart from creating our specially commissioned tea bowls Rachel makes a range of finely thrown porcelain tableware in simple, elegant shapes. Each piece is stamped with her discreet stylish potters mark which is listed in British Studio Potters’ Marks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/ETyAx6NPX-w\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16278895687,"sku":"TB001","price":32.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/83AD7D33-D4E6-4951-824C-3B057BC4C454.jpg?v=1761399417"},{"product_id":"chinese-silver-needle-tea","title":"Mr Zheng's 2024 Silver Needle","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA delicate, sweet and mellow tea made from only the top buds of the tea plant. Refreshing and relaxing.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003eSilver Needle\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003eMr Zheng\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003eBo Yang Organic Tea Garden, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003eXiamen Chan Village, Fuding, China\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003eApril \/ May\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003eDa Bai Hao\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003eTop buds\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003eSun drying\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003eGentle, floral and high in antioxidants\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e April\u003c\/span\u003e 2024, Michelle Comins \u0026gt;\u0026gt; \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/and-another-another-blog\"\u003eblog here\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Gaiwan]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p6\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAmount of tea per pot (200 ml): \u003c\/b\u003e2.5 g (2 tsp)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p6\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/b\u003e 80℃ \/ 178℉\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p6\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time: 3\u003c\/b\u003e minutes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p6\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/b\u003e 5+\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-p6\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_5156582174219664215gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/b\u003e No sugar, no milk.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Mr Zheng \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMichelle :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eMr Zheng is an energetic, charismatic figure with huge energy.  Michelle has been out to meet him twice in the last few years and he always has a story to share, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eHere we share an e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e Mr Zheng : \u003cem\u003e‘I retired from the army in 2004 and returned to Fuding. I had a vision of starting my own business and I was friends with the boss from an import-export company in Xiamen[....] \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003ehe suggested that I start in tea – specifically, in organic tea.’ [....] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eInvesting in organic certification for the garden has not been an easy path. It costs a lot of money and it’s hard to convince people it really is organic. All my tea is hand plucked and a lot of people think I am crazy because it involves a lot of work [...] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003ewhen I drink my own organic tea I can feel confident in the quality. There are many reasons why people should drink Fuding white tea. White tea is one of the six famous teas of China, it has many medicinal uses and China is the true origin of white tea'\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/HAYDN_WEST_Early_morning_in_Fuding_Mr_Zhengs_tea_fields_2016_1_grande.jpg?v=1554184542\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChinese Silver Needle is the highest grade of white tea. It is highly sought after and is the most popular type of Chinese white tea.  \u003cspan\u003eSilver Needle (or Yin Zhen) can only be harvested during a brief period of time in early spring before the buds turn into leaves. These leaves from the Dai-Bai varietal must be picked when it is dry and warm, and then dried in the sun before any significant oxidation can take place. Light and plump, they are covered in downy white hairs and once dried look like needles, hence the name. Traditionally, these rare, exquisite leaves were reserved for the Chinese Imperial Family.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g","offer_id":34540812861598,"sku":"","price":15.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"30g","offer_id":21525280647,"sku":"chinese-tea-silverneedle-2","price":29.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"60g","offer_id":53670655099265,"sku":"","price":57.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_60017130-7ab7-4a62-a5a4-9a773cba378d.jpg?v=1620232245"},{"product_id":"assam-tea","title":"Khongea Golden Tip Assam Tea","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply Put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003eOur Golden Tip Assam is a rich, strong, malty black tea from the family run Khongea estate in Northern India with whom we have a long standing relationship\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis tea will be delivered in our new compostable packaging \u0026gt;\u0026gt; read more  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/pages\/tea-education\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003eGolden Tip Assam\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003eSanjay Rawat [Michelle is seen below with the previous manager and tea maker [\u003cem\u003enow retired\u003c\/em\u003e Diwakar Thapliyal] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKhongea Tea Estate, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003eHiloidari, Upper Assam, India\u003cspan\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003eIn the upper reaches of the Assam region, on the S Bank of the Brahmaputra River.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e 470 hectares with three factories.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003eJune\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003eClonal P-126\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrade\u003c\/strong\u003e : \u003cspan\u003eTippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe (TGFOP) \u003cem\u003e[meaning that there is a high content of the young, golden tips or buds. Tips are particularly rich in the substances that create the aroma, taste and flavour of the tea]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003eTwo leaves and a bud or three leaves and a bud\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003eWithered, rolled, oxidised and fired.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003eRich, strong and malty\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e June 2017, Michelle Comins\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Western Style]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p7\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAmount of tea per bowl (200 ml):\u003c\/b\u003e 2.5 g (1 teaspoon)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p7\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/b\u003e 100℃ \/ 212℉\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p7\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time:\u003c\/b\u003e 3-5 minutes as desired\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p7\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/b\u003e 1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p7\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/b\u003e No sugar, add milk if desired.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Khongea\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEstablished in the late 19th century Khongea passed into the Prakash family over 50 years ago and under their management has set standards for many other large estates in the area.  You can see Michelle with Husna in the picture below tasting tea at the main office in Kolkata back in 2017\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMichelle :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e :  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eIn 2017 I finally got the chance to visit and stay at this garden under the care of Diwakar Thapliyal, the wonderfully kind garden manager. [pictured below with Michelle]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Khongea_11_large.jpg?v=1553018543\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 68\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e[.....] Diwakar has a long history in the Indian tea industry, having grown up in Mussoorie, an Indian hill station where he had seen tea growing and gained his basic knowledge. Two topics dominated our discussions: people and quality. Diwakar explained how an estate like Khongea [.....] is a democracy of over 2,000 people working together towards a common goal [....] \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot all estates think or work like this, which is why you need to know where your tea comes from and support those, like Khongea, that do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFurther insight from our time at Khongea \u003cbr\u003e[not in the book!]\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'The Seed Barie'\u003c\/strong\u003e Michelle : \u003cem\u003e'Travelling the garden in the Jeep Diwakar took a detour up a very narrow path in front of an area that looked like an orchard.  It was in fact a “seed barie\", an area [similar to an orchard] separated from main tea fields where the parents of approved stock are established.  This is where tea seeds are produced and like standard tea plants these trees ideally grow on well drained, fertile sandy loam soil.  Tea seeds are produced over the entire surface of a seed tree so they are planted far enough apart so that when at full size the branches do not overlap.   When ready the seeds simply fall off and are collected.  At Khongea the team plant just two kinds of tea trees in the Barie we visited - Tv1 and Tv19.  These have different characteristics, one good quality, one vigorous, one sensitive to water and pests, one not.  The bi-clonal seeds produced in the seed barie mean you don't need grafting as the seeds have already come from cross pollination of two plants existing in the same area.  Away from the Barie the team here have their own nursery where they propagate from both seeds and cuttings.  Across the whole estate a variety of cultivars are planted.  TV1 , S3A3, Tinalli 17 are all good for CTC as they have a fullness and deliver a brisk bright cup.  For orthodox teas they mainly plant P126 [which delivers a high number of golden tips] Betjan and Tinallu 17.  Many of these clones were propagated around 50 years ago by the TOCKLAI tea research Institute.   On the way back to the factory we passed areas under ‘regeneration’ - during this process trees are cut to 18 to 20 inches in order to give them a longer life potential'\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'In the factory : Orthodox vs CTC' :\u003c\/strong\u003e Michelle : \u003cem\u003e'Back at the factory, looking over the large withering beds, Diwakar explained how once 8 percent withered the leaves would be removed.  Those destined for CTC will simply pass into the machinery that will eventually deliver the fine particles used in tea bags.  The Orthodox leaves pass to the rolling tables where cell breakage will takes place - stimulating enzymes from the nucleus and cytoplasm to react in the presence of oxygen.  The sap concentrated in the leaf from the withering process is released coating the tips and giving them a golden hue - ask to see the leaf next time you are in a tea store - you should see the sheen on the top of a good quality leaf  While all this is happening the leaves are also shaped - the style is determined by the pressure which is controlled by the large wheel to the side of the roller.  Every ten minutes pressure is applied before being released getting heavier with each cycle.  How much pressure is applied throughout will be determined by the leaf type.  The leaves then pass to the fermenting room where they are left, on the floor, for two hours - this is an extremely important part of the process where the chemical changes in the leaf develop and lots of external factors must be considered including the weather and the conditions in the room.  The final parts of the process involve removing dust, getting rid of stalks, fibre and flaky leaf and then of course tasting.   Diwakar and his team taste the teas twice a day at a space in the heart of the factory - something we were allowed to partake in on our visit - quite an experience!  Early samples are tasted to see if any improvements can be made and packing samples are tasted to ensure quality before the teas are packed to ship.  Diwakar explained how they always taste the CTC first followed by the orthodox looking at the appearance, infusion and the cup.  On the dry leaf they are looking for tips, the glow in tea, leaf size and the presence of stalks . For the CTC teas they are looking for fullness - how thick the tea is in the mouth, briskness and the  astringent qualities in the tea.  The brightness in the cup is confirmed when you add milk so we always taste all teas with and without!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":22405981319,"sku":"tea-assam-taster","price":2.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":22405981447,"sku":"tea-assam-taster-50g","price":5.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":22405981511,"sku":"tea-assam-taster-100g","price":10.45,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250g (100+ cups)","offer_id":33596959687,"sku":"tea-assam-taster-250g","price":26.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_c6d64191-ee3d-49c3-9c15-7c09ee39ca2c.jpg?v=1610817455"},{"product_id":"sencha-tea","title":"Sencha Superior","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis Sencha [\u003c\/span\u003eSuperior grade] is a green tea from Japan. This tea has a rich mellow taste and gentle refreshing aroma. We recommend this as an excellent everyday Sencha - a firm favourite with our customers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth....\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003eSencha [Superior grade : blended]\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003eCooperative farmers in \u003c\/span\u003eUji and Wazuka\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e30 to 60 hectare per farm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time :\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe middle and end of first harvest of the year. (Middle to end of May)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'Yabukita' \u0026amp; 'Okumidori' \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMachine trimmed, \u003c\/span\u003eShaded 3 to 7 days before harvesting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSteaming\u003c\/strong\u003e : 30-60 seconds\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e[The exact timing will depend on the condition of new growth]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKneading\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e: 1.5 hours or more.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShaping\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e: 1 hour.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrying\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e: 1 hour.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003eA r\u003c\/span\u003eich, hearty nourishing tea with the underlying fresh tones of Sencha tea\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHow to prepare [kyusu]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e5g (one tea caddy spoon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 80℃ \/ 176℉ (boil kettle, cool for 60 seconds)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2-3 minutes (or as desired)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2*\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*\u003cem\u003ePossible number of times you can re-brew using the same leaves.  \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis tea can be infused\/brewed multiple times, just place the leaves to one side and reuse.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSencha [Superior grade : blended]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e Tea Grade:\u003c\/strong\u003e This Sencha tea is graded ‘Superior’ and is an everyday, affordable, high quality Sencha. It is from the Ichibancha or first flush harvest, the first of the year, taking place in early Spring. This crop is richer in aromas than later teas and more highly prized.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSencha [Superior grade : blended]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e Tea Origin: \u003c\/strong\u003e To maintain the same quality of flavour each year this blended Sencha teas is a blend of leaves harvested at different farms. This combination is different each year. The tea farms producing the tea for this \u003cspan\u003eSencha [Superior grade : blended]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e are between seven and thirty seven hectares in size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSencha [Superior grade : blended]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e Tea Flavour: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThis\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eSencha tea makes a golden green liquor. It has a gentle refreshing aroma and rich mellow taste which is a fine balance between sweetness and bitterness. Sencha superior is ideal for those looking for a great everyday green tea.  \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":22406030535,"sku":"tea-sencha-1","price":3.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":22732265415,"sku":"tea-sencha-2","price":9.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":22732265735,"sku":"tea-sencha-3","price":17.1,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250","offer_id":8429040992307,"sku":"","price":40.61,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_8b07c6ec-5cba-45c6-8455-fbc23781c2d5.jpg?v=1609686889"},{"product_id":"tea-filters","title":"Tea Filters","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA pack of tea filters perfect for holding loose leaf tea when using tea bowls or a teapot. Our disposable tea filters are a convenient way to enjoy loose leaf tea either at home or on the move.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use your Tea Filters\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo use, spoon your leaves into the filter and stand it in your tea bowl or cup. If using a teapot close the lid over the end of the filter to hold it in place. Add water at the correct temperature and after the required infusion time remove the filter. Either put aside for another infusion or dispose. To make filling-up easy each filter has an elongated back and is wide enough for our tea caddy spoon. Its wide base means that no filter holder is required.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe size of the filters are 13cm high and 8.3cm wide with a base depth of 5cm. Having enough space in a filter is essential as the leaves need space to swell, expand and unfurl to release their full flavour. The Filters are made of taste-neutral wood and hemp fibres and are chlorine free and unbleached. They are completely biodegradable and compostable.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTea Tip:\u003c\/strong\u003e Carry filters in your tea tin or take pre-filled bags with you if you are on the move.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"30 filters","offer_id":22406087111,"sku":"tea-filters--30","price":2.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50 filters","offer_id":22406087047,"sku":"tea-filters--50","price":2.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100 filters","offer_id":22406087303,"sku":"tea-filters--100","price":4.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"200 filters","offer_id":39533436403887,"sku":"","price":8.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/tea-filters-2.jpg?v=1479064498"},{"product_id":"gyokuro-tea","title":"Gyokuro : Superior Grade [blended]","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Gyokuro \u003cspan\u003e[superior grade : blended] \u003c\/span\u003etea is mild and sweet with an elegant aroma. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth....\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003eGyokuro [superior grade : blended]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003eCooperative farmers in \u003c\/span\u003eUji and Wazuka\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e30 to 60 hectare per farm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eM\u003c\/span\u003eiddle and end of first harvest of the year. (Middle to end of May)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'Yabukita' and 'Okumidori'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMachine trimmed.  \u003c\/span\u003eShaded 20-30 days before harvesting (A process known as Jikagise)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSteaming\u003c\/strong\u003e : 30-60 seconds\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e[The exact timing will depend on the condition of new growth]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKneading\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e: 1.5 hours or more.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShaping\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e: 1 hour.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrying\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e: 1 hour.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003eA \u003c\/span\u003emild and sweet tea with an elegant aroma\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHow to prepare [kyusu]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml): \u003c\/strong\u003e5g (one \u003ca href=\"\/products\/tea-caddy-spoons\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Tea Caddy Spoons\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water: \u003c\/strong\u003e60℃ \/ 140℉\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time: \u003c\/strong\u003e2-3 minutes \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3-4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSome interesting Gyokuro facts : \u003c\/strong\u003eGyokuro is grown under shade for the last twenty days before harvesting, a technique which creates its sweet taste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThis \u003cspan\u003eGyokuro \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e[superior grade : blended] \u003c\/span\u003eis not only a great introduction to those who have not tried this type of tea before.  For more regular Gyokuro drinkers it offers a great combination of quality and value that a more regular drinker will appreciate.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":22406099591,"sku":"tea-gyokuro-taster-15g","price":3.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":22406099463,"sku":"tea-gyokuro-taster-50g","price":10.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":22406099399,"sku":"tea-gyokuro-taster-100g","price":19.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"250g","offer_id":8429241335859,"sku":"","price":45.2,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_92f366d3-316c-41b7-bd2a-2836b1727b82.jpg?v=1609780469"},{"product_id":"dong-ding-oolong-tea","title":"Custom Baked Dong Ding : Baked Jin Xuan Oolong Tea","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNutty, strong and deliciously woody.  \u003c\/span\u003eThis tea is produced from the Jin Xuan T-12 cultivar using a 3 step multi-stage oven baking process to a finish specified by Rob \u0026amp; Michelle.   \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 1.4em;\"\u003eIn more depth\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea maker : Processed by : \u003c\/b\u003eTsai Brothers \u003cstrong\u003eBaked by :\u003c\/strong\u003e Yu Wen \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLeaf Origin :\u003c\/b\u003e Tsai Brothers tea farm Nantou County Taiwan \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize : 1 hectare total split into 3 cultivars\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : Spring\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA note on harvest time for Dong Ding Style Teas : Many Dong Ding makers store the tea to let it mellow before baking including our partners.  Spring tea is baked in Autumn and Autumn tea baked in Spring \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003eJin Xuan TRES No 12 (\u003cem\u003eInterested to learn more about Taiwanese tea style, cultivar \u0026amp; terroir? click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/3fjnL0E\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e to read our blog on the topic)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003eFour or Five Leaves\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003eMedium oxidised, three-step multi-stage oven baking [modern oven]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003eNutty, strong and deliciously woody\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis tea is the product of the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/spotlight-on-sourcing-taiwan\"\u003eh\u003c\/a\u003eighly networked tea system in Taiwan : in this case the tea is grown and initially processed by one family before being finished by another.  To learn more about our partnerships in Taiwan and who we work with to bring you these great teas please do \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/spotlight-on-sourcing-taiwan\"\u003ehead over to our blog \u003c\/a\u003e\u0026gt; what you read here is just part of our commitment to greater transparency in tea.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e Summer 2017, Rob Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea (Gong Fu Style)...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e 5g (1\/3 of a pot)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90℃ \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 45 seconds and then 20 seconds as desired\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5+\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to [prepare (Western Style)...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e 5g (one \u003ca title=\"Tea Caddy Spoon\" href=\"https:\/\/wired-canvas.myshopify.com\/products\/tea-caddy-spoon\" style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 1.4em;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90℃ \/ 195℉ (boil kettle, cool for 20 seconds)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 minutes (or as desired). Add 1 minute for each further infusion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 to 4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade (Dong Ding)...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA few interesting facts :\u003c\/strong\u003e Dong Ding, or Tung Ting, Oolong is one of Taiwan's most famous teas. This tea is from the Jinxuan T-12 cultivar.  The name means “frozen peak” and refers to Tung Ting mountain, a tea producing area in Nantou, Taiwan whose name has become eponymous with its style of tea manufacturing. Tea was first planted here at the end of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Initially just twelve tea plants were imported from Fujian, China.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAltitude impacts flavour : \u003c\/strong\u003eThe altitude of the tea garden and the surrounding mountains mean that the teas are grown enshrouded in mist and receive minimal sunshine. At night, temperatures can drop below freezing. It is these factors that contribute to the tea's natural sweetness and richness of flavour and aroma.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOxidation impacts flavour :\u003c\/strong\u003e Dong Ding teas have a longer oxidisation period and are also slowly baked at a high temperatures, with careful attention to how the flavours and aromas are changing throughout the baking process. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Dong_Ding_3_grande.jpg?v=1555832770\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe result is caramelised sweetness with a depth and complexity that literally makes your mouth water—it’s a phenomenon the Chinese call “Hui Gan.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRob :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRob\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003e\"Yuwen and her family, who live in Mingjian, western Nantou County. This area has the highest concentration of tea producers in Taiwan. Despite this, one third of the crops grown are not tea; pineapple, dragon fruit, ginger, bananas and a large variety of local vegetables create a diversity made possible by the small plot system. This is not only necessary for the survival of many farmers, but is also helpful in pest control, as natural barriers are created to stop the spread of disease\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYuwen\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cem\u003e‘I first started in tea when I went to my father’s tea factory in China at the age of 21 or 22. When I arrived I knew very little about tea, but he needed extra tea bakers, so I was put in charge of baking. I worked there for four years, living and working at the factory. As the boss’s daughter I could not admit that I didn’t know anything – I just had to learn from the workers, what they asked and their comments. My father encouraged me, telling me that making tea is a job that you enjoy, sitting down with your customers and serving them [....]  \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe hardest part of producing tea is that once you are baking, there can be no break until it is finished. This is why I bake in the evening, so there can be no interruption from my two boys! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cspan color=\"#ff2600\" style=\"color: #ff2600;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":22480517319,"sku":"dong-ding-oolong-tea-3","price":3.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":22480517255,"sku":"dong-ding-oolong-tea-2","price":9.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":22406145095,"sku":"dong-ding-oolong-tea-1","price":17.1,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250g (100+ cups)","offer_id":8444616900659,"sku":"","price":40.61,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_e28de187-3954-4472-ade3-2fad1a2a0581.jpg?v=1610890050"},{"product_id":"genmaicha-tea","title":"Genmaicha Tea","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGenmaicha tea is a flavourful, smooth blend of sencha and roasted brown rice.  Our blended cultivar Genmaicha tea has a rich, hearty flavour from the roasted rice grains combined with the freshness of a Sencha tea.  A perfect everyday Genmaicha.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth....\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGenmaicha \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003eCooperative farmers in \u003c\/span\u003eUji and Wazuka\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e30 to 60 hectare per farm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe first harvest of the year. (End of May)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'Yabukita' \u0026amp; 'Okumidori' \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMachine trimmed, full sun, no shade\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSteaming\u003c\/strong\u003e : 30-60 seconds \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e[The exact timing will depend on the condition of new growth]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKneading\u003c\/strong\u003e : 1.5 hours or more.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShaping\u003c\/strong\u003e : 1 hour.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrying\u003c\/strong\u003e : 1 hour.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003eA r\u003c\/span\u003eich, hearty nourishing tea with the underlying fresh tones of Sencha tea\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHOW TO MAKE GENMAICHA TEA\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per serving (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e5g (one \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca title=\"Tea Caddy Spoon\" href=\"\/products\/tea-caddy-spoons\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e80℃ \/ 176℉ (boil kettle, cool for 40 seconds)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e1 - 2 minutes as desired.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e3\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy: \u003c\/strong\u003eNo milk, no sugar \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGenmaicha Tea Grade:\u003c\/strong\u003e This Genmaicha is made using high quality Sencha, blended with roasted rice grains. The Sencha is from the Ichibancha or first flush harvest, the first of the year, taking place in early Spring. This crop is richer in aromas than later teas and more highly prized.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigins of Genmaicha :\u003c\/strong\u003e  This tea is sometimes known as the 'people's tea' as it was originally drunk by poor Japanese. The rice was added as a filler to reduce the price of the tea. Today, it is popular with all. The use of high quality Sencha in our Genmaicha means it is by no means an ordinary tea anymore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGenmaicha Tea Flavour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Genmaicha tea makes a light yellow liquor. The roasted rice dominates the aroma but with fresh Sencha undertones. The rice provides a rich, roasty and hearty flavour, but the liquor has the freshness of a Sencha. It is very well balanced and flavoured.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":22406194823,"sku":"genmaicha-taster","price":3.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":22406194951,"sku":"genmaicha-50g","price":6.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":22406195143,"sku":"genmaicha-100g","price":12.35,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250g (100+ cups)","offer_id":8429055770675,"sku":"","price":29.33,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_75767783-d82f-4b92-bd8b-8f85a625b097.jpg?v=1609686667"},{"product_id":"sencha-karigane","title":"Sencha Karigane","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA light, refreshing, focusing tea. Our Sencha Karigane is a green tea from Uji Japan. This tea has a mild, sweet taste and a wonderful fresh aroma.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth....\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003eSencha Karigane [blended]\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003eCooperative farmers in \u003c\/span\u003eUji and Wazuka\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e30 to 60 hectare per farm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time :\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe middle and end of first harvest of the year. (Middle to end of May)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'Yabukita' \u0026amp; 'Okumidori' \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMachine trimmed, \u003c\/span\u003eShaded 3 to 7 days before harvesting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSteaming\u003c\/strong\u003e : 30-60 seconds\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e[The exact timing will depend on the condition of new growth]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKneading\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e: 1.5 hours or more.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShaping\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e: 1 hour.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrying\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e: 1 hour.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003eA \u003c\/span\u003emild, sweet tea with a wonderfully fresh aroma.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHow to prepare [kyusu]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per serving (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e 5g (one \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.cominsteahouse.co.uk\/index.php\/teaware\/tea-spoons.html\" title=\"Tea Caddy Spoon\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e \/ 2 teaspoons)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water: \u003c\/strong\u003e80℃ \/ 176℉ (boil kettle, cool for 40 seconds)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 - 1.5 minutes as desired\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSencha Karigane [blended] Tea Grade:\u003c\/strong\u003e Our Sencha Karigane [blended] is made using high quality sencha. It is from the Ichibancha or first flush harvest, the first of the year, taking place in early Spring. This crop is richer in aromas than later teas and more highly prized.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSencha Karigane [blended]\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eTea Origin:\u003c\/strong\u003e This \u003cspan\u003eSencha Karigane [blended]\u003c\/span\u003e is made using the stems and veins of the highest-quality Sencha. Karigane stems are rich in Theanine, which is found in Gyokuro and Matcha grown under shades twenty to thirty days before the harvest. This higher concentration of \u003cspan\u003eTheanine\u003c\/span\u003e gives the tea a sweeter and less bitter flavour than standard Sencha.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSencha Karigane [blended]\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e Tea Flavour:\u003c\/strong\u003e This tea makes a translucent, bright yellowy-green liquor. It has a gentle refreshing aroma. The mild taste is sweet with very little bitterness.  Sencha Karigane [blended] is ideal starting point for those who are new to green tea, as well as providing a different, lighter experience for those more accustomed to the profile of Japanese green tea.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":22498461831,"sku":"sencha-karigane-3","price":13.3,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250","offer_id":8429027819571,"sku":"","price":31.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"15g","offer_id":55042529689985,"sku":null,"price":3.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g","offer_id":55042539127169,"sku":null,"price":7.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_e2395351-e307-4743-8731-1ee13dcba417.jpg?v=1609686816"},{"product_id":"autumnal-flush-darjeeling-tea","title":"Rajiv’s 2025 Second Flush Muscatel Darjeeling","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of our small lot offerings from 2025  this is a well rounded and full bodied second Flush with muscatel flavour which will brighten your morning or afternoon tea break \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis tea is grown and made by a small cooperative which you can \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/the-new-generation-rajiv\"\u003eread all about in this blog from our 2022 trip to Darjeeling\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to make Rajiv’s Second Flush Muscatel Darjeeling\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per serving (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5g (1\/2 \u003ca title=\"Tea Caddy Spoon\" href=\"http:\/\/www.cominsteahouse.co.uk\/index.php\/teaware\/tea-spoons.html\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e \/ 1 teaspoons)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 95℃ \/ 185℉ (boil kettle, cool for 20 seconds)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3-4 minutes or as desired\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Tea Gardens : \u003c\/strong\u003eCollective of 6 smallholder tea gardens across Kurseong \u0026amp; Poobong.\u003cstrong\u003e Manufactured : \u003c\/strong\u003ein the factory of Rajiv : Burbung Busty\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/the-new-generation-rajiv\"\u003eRead all about the people, the land, the community in this blog from our 2022 trip to Darjeeling \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":22406234887,"sku":"autumnal-flush-darjeeling-tea-1","price":3.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":22479599175,"sku":"autumnal-flush-darjeeling-tea-2","price":8.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":22479599239,"sku":"autumnal-flush-darjeeling-tea-3","price":16.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_a62ea565-862e-4345-9511-c29c76728ecc.heic?v=1763297493"},{"product_id":"oriental-beauty-oolong-tea","title":"Autumn Oriental Beauty Oolong Tea [3rd Plum Grade]","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur Oriental Beauty Oolong Tea from a small 4 hectare family farm in Miaoli, Western Taiwan is an intense, complex tea with a sweet honey after taste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003eOriental Beauty 3rd plum\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003eLi-Min-Tseng\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003eMiaoli Taiwan at an altitude of around 200–400 metres\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e 4 hectares\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003eJune 2023\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003eChin Shin Dah Pan\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003eOne big bud \u0026amp; two leaves [this tea is 3rd Plum grade\u003cem\u003e [see below]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe chemistry of this tea means that the dry leaf is a beautiful mixture of gold, green, brown and black and silvery white. Once brewed the liquor is a light, amber yellow and has a bright, sweet, flowery smell. The flavour is intense yet smooth, honey-sweet with some fruity elements. This lasts for many infusions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eOriental Beauty is best enjoyed on its own so that its delicate flavour can be savoured untainted.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Gong Fu Style]\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per serving (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e Fill 1\/5 - 1\/3 full of tea leaves\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 80℃ \/ 176℉ (boil kettle, cool for 20-30 seconds)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e Firstly fill vessel to the brim and immediately discard water. Then infuse for 45 seconds - 1 minute (or as desired) Then 20 seconds for each further infusion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Western Teapot]\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per serving (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e 5g (1 \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.cominsteahouse.co.uk\/index.php\/teaware\/tea-spoons.html\" title=\"Tea Caddy Spoon\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e \/ 2 teaspoons)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90℃ \/ 194℉ (boil kettle, cool for 20 seconds)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 minutes (or as desired). Then 1 minute.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e Best with no milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFor Interest :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/em\u003eAlso known as Dong Fang Mei Ren or Bai Hao, this tea has a special story behind it. The uniques flavour it possesses relies upon the attack of an insect called a Green Leaf Hopper or Jassid, a small cricket. This minute insect nibbles the edges of the leaves causing the plant to release an enzyme to defend against further attack. When processed this natural chemical provides the incredible flavour.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/TAIWAN_Green_Leaf_Hopper_at_Jojos_-_Miaoli_480x480.jpg?v=1572359154\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Oriental Beauty\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRob :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJojo comes from a family with four generations of tea farmers who operate an example of the vertically integrated system [see our book for more details]. They own and farm the land, process the leaves in their small factory and sell the final product direct. The farm today produces Oriental Beauty, a tea whose unique taste is dependent on the leaves of the tea bushes being bitten by a small insect, the green leaf hopper. When the bug sucks the leaf sap the plant produces\u003cbr\u003ea chemical to repel it. This combined with the bite, which starts oxidation, results in a unique ‘honeyed’ taste when the leaves are processed. This bug is prevalent in the Miaoli and Hshin Chu counties, so this is where the producers are.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/TAIWAN_Bags_in_the_tea_fields_2_at_Jojos_-_for_four_season_oolong_-_Miaoli_480x480.jpg?v=1572358402\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJojo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e:\u003cem\u003e ‘I have been around tea since I was tiny. My sister, brother and I used to go up to the same tea fields you see today to help. It was my sister who started me in my work in tea. She is a certified tea master and has been learning about tea from a very early age. She told me I should sell the tea she had decided to make: Oriental Beauty. This is what I do and love today – selling the tea my sister makes'\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/JOJO_480x480.jpg?v=1572358705\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 61\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e‘My grandfather decided to make Oriental Beauty when it started to become more popular around 20 years ago. Our land and plants are good for it and it has a good history in the area. The altitude of around 200–400 metres means there are many hoppers, so it is natural to use them. In Miaoli it is the skill of tea masters that makes the biggest di erence. We have a unique climate and environment, which makes it the perfect place for hoppers to live, but the flavours come from the process. Apart from our neighbour Hsinchu, the conditions are not the same anywhere else in Taiwan. We have more flowery, red fruit and honey layers in the tea, mostly honey flavours.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/ORIENTAL_BEAUTY_480x480.jpg?v=1572358750\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e‘Producing Oriental Beauty is not easy, though – managing the land is the hardest bit. We are organic, which means there is a lot of work to do. To keep the quality of the plants we use organic fertilizer, which we make ourselves and which costs lots of money, so we have to hope the crop is good. We cannot use any chemicals as this would kill the hoppers, so no pesticides or herbicides. We also have to weed by hand. If the elds are not kept in a good condition the hoppers will leave and go to another garden. They live there all year long, so there is no break. They like wet, but not too hot, conditions, and that is why our garden has lots of trees around it'\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/TAIWAN_Leaf_on_the_floor_of_Jojos_factory_-_Miaoli_480x480.jpg?v=1572358816\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarefully sorting and processing is key, especially for teas that will be entered into the annual Miaoli Oriental Beauty competition. This competition is a way for the market to control prices and promote quality. Teas are entered in 10-jin boxes containing 40 tins; a jin is equal to 600 grams. Judging is done anonymously by three judges who are Tea Research Institute leaders. Grades range from 1, 2 or 3 plum flowers, up to third, second and first prizes, and the grand prize. Plum flowers are used because it is Taiwan’s national flower. Gaining a grading increases the value of a producer’s tea, sometimes by a considerable amount. This can often attract businesses who buy tea from a farmer to enter the competition with the hope of being placed, gaining a reputation and building on their investment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/TAIWAN_Inside_the_drying_room_at_Jojos_factory_-_Miaoli_480x480.jpg?v=1572359174\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJojo’s family sets themselves the personal challenge of winning the grand prize every year. There are many hurdles along the way: \u003cem\u003e‘The biggest challenge is nding enough pickers. The average age of our pickers is\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cem\u003e80 years old. They love to work as they are otherwise not doing much and they like the money, but we need to start training up new pickers. The older pickers won’t stop until they have to, so in order not to offend them we’ll probably have two picking teams for the moment.’\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhat advice does Jojo have for us tea drinkers?\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e‘Taiwanese tea is fresh and tastes amazing, but to get more enjoyment your customers should try to understand the drinking culture and appreciate that tea is made with both hands and heart. Tea is also far better when enjoyed with friends\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"10g","offer_id":22406334855,"sku":"oolong-beauty-oolong-tea-taster","price":12.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"30g","offer_id":30987169136777,"sku":"","price":34.2,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"60g","offer_id":30987169333385,"sku":"","price":65.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_6ad06e76-e21b-496c-8b9a-d9d11807a219.jpg?v=1610036257"},{"product_id":"satemwa-2014-zomba-pearls-white-tee","title":"Satemwa Zomba Pearls White Tea","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis rolled white tea has a buttery texture and hints of hay \u0026amp; tangy zest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZomba Pearls\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChuisomo Custom\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eSatemwa, Shire Highlands, Malawi April\/May–September\/October \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e900 hectares of tea\u003cem\u003e [alongside 52 hectares of micro- lot speciality coffee and 400 hectares of sustainable wood used to dry the tea]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eAugust 2024\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eZomba Cultivar: an endemic Malawian slow-oxidizing cultivar\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eTwo leaves and one bud\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003eH\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eand plucked, withered, hand rolled \u003cem\u003e[\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003einto cocoons resembling olive green “pearls”] \u003c\/em\u003eand dried in a sustainable wood-fuelled micro drier\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience :  \u003c\/b\u003eA smooth tea with buttery texture and hints of hay \u0026amp; tangy zest.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare : Gaiwan :\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"font-size: 1.4em;\"\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 1.4em;\"\u003e 2.5g (1 teaspoon) of leaf\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e Infuse at 80 C\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3-5 minutes as desired*\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Infuse up to 6 times, reducing the infusion time with each infusion as the leaves unfurl\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e*Once brewed remove leaves\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Satemwa :\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #999999;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Shining Light in African Tea\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMichelle :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe tea Industry in Malawi is tough.  O\u003c\/span\u003ene of the poorest countries in the world, its economy is heavily reliant on tea export and the livelihood of its often marginalized tea communities is at the mercy of a multitude of factors, not least the changing global climate [....] but this is not a story of woe it is one of \u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003emodern pioneers reviving the tea industry, making brave decisions and taking risks to bring us truly great teas. Alexander Kay is a third-generation tea farmer at Satemwa Tea Estate.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e[Photo below : Satemwa Tea Factory : Credit Annette Kay : Satemwa]\u003cspan\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Factory_3707e43d-5bdb-4076-9ad6-0d8e2bf3026e_grande.jpg?v=1561482335\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eWe have worked with the team at Satemwa for a few years now, and their hand-rolled Zomba Pearls are incredibly popular at our teahouses. We have discovered a talented team prepared to have open and honest conversations around the shape and direction of the tea market. Their story is one of optimism, innovation and great-tasting teas [...]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e[Photo below : Pearls and cup : Credit Annette Kay : Satemwa]\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/SATEMWA_2_N_grande.jpg?v=1554189403\" alt=\"\" style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e[...] Wouter Verelst from Satemwa told me that about the strong sector-funded Tea Research Foundation in Malawi, which has overseen the development\u003cbr\u003e of the cultivars here: ‘It has worked hard since the 1960s to develop some endemic Malawian cultivars adapted to the unique terroir and specific climate and also high in theanine and catechins. They did, and are still doing, a lot of research on climate change-resistant varieties.’ From these cultivars Satemwa produces a range of high-quality pesticide-free teas and is certifed by Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance and UTZ  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e[...]\u003cspan\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAlexander decided to revive the production of the orthodox teas in 2006 and what you see today is the result of hours of experimenting and tasting by Alexander and the Satemwa Speciality Team informed by trips to Sri Lanka, China, India and Japan to look at different techniques and production methods. We never wanted to simply replicate teas from elsewhere – the aim has always been to create a Satemwa style, with our own character and signature \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e[...] \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis approach is incredibly forward-thinking and shows that successful diversification \u003cem\u003eis\u003c\/em\u003e possible in markets predominantly known for commodity black tea.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e[...] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe key to long-term success at Satemwa has been establishing a reputation for Malawian orthodox teas based on craftsmanship, knowledge and experience'\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e[...] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e[Photo below : Hand Rolling Tea : Credit Annette Kay : Satemwa]\u003cspan\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Handrolling_grande.jpg?v=1561482348\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhotos below \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e[1. Smallholders Satemwa : Credit Annette Kay : Satemwa] \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e[2. Trees and light : Credit Annette Kay : Satemwa] \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e[3. Tea Sample Room : Credit Annette Kay : Satemwa] \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":22406518727,"sku":"","price":14.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":22406518855,"sku":"","price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_d258f295-9a0c-46bb-bad8-58fe7e18edbd.jpg?v=1620232488"},{"product_id":"matcha-whisk","title":"Japanese Matcha Whisk [100 Prong]","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Matcha Whisk or Chasen is used to whisk Matcha into its characteristic frothy form. It is skilfully handmade from one piece of natural bamboo and has one hundred bristles or ‘tines’.   The large number of bristles creates a bowl of matcha that is especially smooth and frothy. Care for your whisk by wetting it before use. If it is too dry it can be brittle. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis whisk is made in China for our Japanese partners \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"853\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/RCr7A-YqSec\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":22406839239,"sku":"MW1","price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_163223d4-cf20-47cd-95a7-b3c8341732a0.jpg?v=1616252711"},{"product_id":"matcha-scoop","title":"Matcha Scoop","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis traditional natural bamboo measuring spoon is ideal for making sure you use the right amount of Matcha Tea each time. Known in Japan as a Chashaku it holds around 1.5g of tea, or about half a teaspoon. For Usucha (thin tea) you should use two Chashaku of Matcha, whilst for Koicha (thick tea) use three or four.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ciframe width=\"853\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/RCr7A-YqSec\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":22406849415,"sku":"MS1","price":7.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_afd390eb-24a2-4f99-ae6a-7d7f8f52ea06.jpg?v=1632397285"},{"product_id":"matcha-sifter","title":"Matcha Sifter","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOur Matcha Sifter is a must for those who drink Matcha regularly. Unsifted Matcha can form into lumps when water is added which when drunk spoil the experience. This Japanese made sifter is the perfect size to sift Matcha for tea drinking or for use in food. Simply push the matcha into the canister through the fine mesh with the included metal spatula. Remove the mesh and pour the Matcha out.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ciframe width=\"853\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/RCr7A-YqSec\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":22406864711,"sku":"MSI1","price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_7d49d402-20e2-4bf3-ace4-74fafc0f479b.heic?v=1669817566"},{"product_id":"purion-small-teacup","title":"Purion Small Teabowl","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis simple yet characterful teabowl is a pleasure to drink from and matches the rest of the Purion range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Purion range is made from completely natural materials. During making they undergo the processes of oxidization, reduction, and repeat firing. This results in a simple, natural, and high quality feel. They are not glazed This set is ideal for heavily fired and heavily oxidised tea. This simple yet characterful teabowl is a pleasure to drink from and matches the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.cominsteahouse.co.uk\/purion-serving-pot\"\u003ePurion serving pot\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.cominsteahouse.co.uk\/purion-teapot\"\u003ePurion teapot\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":22406900487,"sku":"H601M1","price":22.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/filled-purion.jpg?v=1763468169"},{"product_id":"matcha-tea","title":"Matcha Superior [Blended]","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Matcha [blended] green tea is a finely milled tea.  Whisked to a froth, when served it delivers a rich, energising and bitter sweet treat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat's in a name :\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ci\u003e This is graded superior due to it being blended \u0026amp; trimmed by machine.  It is [similar to our high grade \u0026amp; premium Matcha]\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e \u003c\/i\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003estone-ground\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ci\u003e carefully to reach an \u003c\/i\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eaverage size of 10 µm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eInterested in MATCHA?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe recipe for quality Matcha includes\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eQuality Matcha : \u003cem\u003e\u003ca data-cke-saved-href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/matcha-tea?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=85ee68a06\u0026amp;_ss=r\" href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/matcha-tea?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=85ee68a06\u0026amp;_ss=r\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMatcha Superior\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMatcha Chasen : \u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/matcha-whisk?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=d7d045ba3\u0026amp;_ss=r\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/matcha-whisk?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=d7d045ba3\u0026amp;_ss=r\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eWhisk\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMatcha Chawan : \u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/matcha-bowl?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=c273e6ddf\u0026amp;_ss=r\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/matcha-bowl?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=c273e6ddf\u0026amp;_ss=r\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGrey\/Green\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/white-matcha-chawan-bowl?_pos=4\u0026amp;_sid=c273e6ddf\u0026amp;_ss=r\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/white-matcha-chawan-bowl?_pos=4\u0026amp;_sid=c273e6ddf\u0026amp;_ss=r\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eWhite\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e or \u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/black-matcha-chawan-bowl?_pos=5\u0026amp;_sid=c273e6ddf\u0026amp;_ss=r\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/black-matcha-chawan-bowl?_pos=5\u0026amp;_sid=c273e6ddf\u0026amp;_ss=r\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBlack\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003eMatcha Chashaku : \u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/matcha-scoop?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=e0c090123\u0026amp;_ss=r\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/matcha-scoop?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=e0c090123\u0026amp;_ss=r\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eScoop\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMatcha Sifter : Either in a \u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/matcha-sifter?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=e5d92fc0b\u0026amp;_ss=r\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/matcha-sifter?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=e5d92fc0b\u0026amp;_ss=r\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etin\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e or as a \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/hand-sifter-for-matcha?_pos=2\u0026amp;_sid=e5d92fc0b\u0026amp;_ss=r\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/hand-sifter-for-matcha?_pos=2\u0026amp;_sid=e5d92fc0b\u0026amp;_ss=r\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003ehand sifter\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth....\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003eMatcha [superior grade : blended]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eUjitawara, Uji and Wazuka\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eM\u003c\/span\u003eiddle and end of first harvest of the year. (Middle to end of May)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'Yabukita' and 'Okumidori'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard \u0026amp; processing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMachine plucked. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlucking\u003c\/strong\u003e : \u003cspan\u003eG\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003erown in the shade for 20-30 days before harvest by the way of \"Tana\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSteaming\u003c\/strong\u003e : 30 to 40 seconds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrying\u003c\/strong\u003e : Around 20 minutes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCutting \/ Sorting\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eBefore picking, steaming and drying the leaves used for Matcha production are shaded for twenty to thirty days. This is done using a canopy called a \"Tana\" and requires skill and great care to achieve the correct result. This shading creates more Theanine, which increases sweetness and creates a more mellow taste. The dried leaves are then ground to a powder with a traditional stone mortar and pestle, called a Hikiusu.\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eRich, energising and bitter sweet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHow to prepare [Chawan]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per serving (80ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5g (half a \u003ca title=\"Tea Caddy Spoon\" href=\"http:\/\/www.cominsteahouse.co.uk\/index.php\/teaware\/tea-spoons.html\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e \/ 2 Chashaku*) Sift before use to remove lumps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 70℃ \/ 176℉ (boil kettle, cool for 40 seconds)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e Once water added whisk until there is a rich foam in top.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*A \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eChashaku\u003c\/span\u003e is a traditional matcha bamboo measuring spoon. Each c\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ehashaku\u003c\/span\u003e equals 1 teaspoon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE:\u003c\/strong\u003e To create a rich and foamy bowl of Matcha, move the bamboo whisk or 'Chasen' quickly like writing the letter \"W.\" It is not a circular stirring motion. Move your wrist back and forth very quickly in short jerks. This method creates a nice frothy lather. If you do not have a whisk a milk frother or normal whisk will be OK but is not recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOur Matcha green tea is graded ‘Superior’ and is among the highest quality produced in Japan making a vivid green liquor with a wonderful aroma.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe froth created by the whisking is silky and the taste rich yet mellow. This tea has a smoother and more mellow taste than most Matcha teas, its reduced bitterness is perfect for those new to Matcha drinking but an equally great choice for those who drink Matcha often and prefer a high quality affordable Matcha.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"853\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/RCr7A-YqSec\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"10g","offer_id":22476640391,"sku":"","price":5.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"40g","offer_id":22481652487,"sku":"","price":16.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"80g","offer_id":8429137657907,"sku":"","price":30.4,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"200g","offer_id":8429153124403,"sku":"","price":76.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_c7c61d8f-35cd-4f3a-89dd-112cd4a4aa7d.jpg?v=1610558086"},{"product_id":"copy-of-mr-zhengs-shou-mei-tea","title":"Mr Zheng's 2020 Shou Mei","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMr Zheng's Shou Mei is produced from the withered upper 3 or 4 leaves tips of the tea plant.  We offer this 2020 crop which is f\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003eruity, rich and sweet - it \u003c\/span\u003ehas had time to settle and which will continue to age naturally delivering a bolder, more fragrant \u0026amp; sweeter cup than the other white teas from Mr Zheng.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan class=\"il\"\u003eTea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eName : \u003c\/b\u003eMr Zheng's 2020 Shou Mei\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan class=\"il\"\u003eTea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMaker : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003eMr Zheng\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003eXiamen Chan Village, Fuding, China\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003eApril \/ May\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003eDa Bai Hao\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003eThree or Four Leaves\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003eSun drying\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003eMore pronounced fruity notes\u003cb\u003e.  \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_6101951096122553257gmail-s1\"\u003eFruity, rich and sweet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e April\u003c\/span\u003e 2024, Michelle Comins \u0026gt;\u0026gt; \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/and-another-another-blog\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/and-another-another-blog\"\u003eblog here\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Gaiwan]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cstrong style=\"font-size: 15px;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003eAmount of tea per cup\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 15px;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"font-size: 15px;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003e(200 ml)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 15px;\" class=\"Apple-tab-span\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 15px;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003e- 5g (2 teaspoon)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 80℃ \/ 194℉\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 1-3 mins as desired\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e- 4+\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Mr Zheng \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMichelle :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eMr Zheng is an energetic, charismatic figure with huge energy.  Michelle has been out to meet him twice in the last few years and he always has a story to share,  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eHere we share an e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e Mr Zheng : \u003cem\u003e‘I retired from the army in 2004 and returned to Fuding. I had a vision of starting my own business and I was friends with the boss from an import-export company in Xiamen[....] \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003ehe suggested that I start in tea – specifically, in organic tea.’ [....] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eInvesting in organic certification for the garden has not been an easy path. It costs a lot of money and it’s hard to convince people it really is organic. All my tea is hand plucked and a lot of people think I am crazy because it involves a lot of work [...] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003ewhen I drink my own organic tea I can feel confident in the quality. There are many reasons why people should drink Fuding white tea. White tea is one of the six famous teas of China, it has many medicinal uses and China is the true origin of white tea'\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cimg style=\"font-size: 15px;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/HAYDN_WEST_Early_morning_in_Fuding_Mr_Zhengs_tea_fields_2016_1_grande.jpg?v=1554184542\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/HAYDN_WEST_Early_morning_in_Fuding_Mr_Zhengs_tea_fields_2016_1_grande.jpg?v=1554184542\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional Information :\u003c\/strong\u003e Shou Mei is produced from a later harvest than the Silver Needle and Bai Mu Dan making it a 'lower grade' - however in our eyes this is not an inferior tea.  This flavourful tea is an excellent choice for an everyday white tea - stronger tasting than it’s Chinese white counterparts - expect a bolder, fragrant \u0026amp; sweet flavour that gets better with age.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"60g","offer_id":33594098183,"sku":"chinese-tea-shoumei-30g","price":23.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"120g","offer_id":33594098247,"sku":"chinese-tea-chinese-tea-shoumei-605","price":44.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"30g","offer_id":53670641566081,"sku":"","price":12.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_532145e5-4c0b-4155-b4cb-e15f75a7b41a.jpg?v=1620151265"},{"product_id":"sencha-fukamushi","title":"Sencha Fukamushi Tea","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis deep steamed tea provides a mellow, gentle and refreshing flavour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHow to make Sencha Fukamushi Tea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 5g (2 teaspoon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 80℃ \/ 176℉\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 1-3 mins as desired\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions*\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 3+\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e- No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*\u003cem\u003ePossible number of times you can re-brew using the same leaves.  \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis tea can be infused\/brewed multiple times, just place the leaves to one side and reuse.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: \u003c\/strong\u003eGrown in Uji near Kyoto, this tea is produced near the heartland of Japanese tea, the point where the first tea bushes were planted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSencha Fukamushi Tea Grade:\u003c\/strong\u003e Our Sencha Fukamushi tea is graded ‘Superior’. It is from the Ichibancha or first flush harvest, the first of the year, taking place in early Spring. This crop is richer in aromas than later teas and more highly prized.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSencha Fukamushi Tea Origin: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis tea is a ‘deep steamed’ variety of Japanese green tea. Usually leaves spend around thirty seconds in the steamer, but with this style they are contained for up to a minute. This process makes Fukamushi leaf particles finer than Sencha and it therefore brews quicker. Before picking and steaming the leaves have been shaded for five to seven days, which develops the smoothness and sweetness, something that compliments the affect of the Fukamushi steaming process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSencha Fukamushi Tea Flavour: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe process creates a tea with a refreshing grassy aroma, a green yellow liquor and a deep yet mellow taste. It is an excellent tea for those who love the steamed nature of Japanese tea and are looking for a great flavourful everyday tea.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":33596209863,"sku":"tea-senchafukamushi-15g","price":3.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":33596209927,"sku":"tea-senchafukamushi-50g","price":8.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":33596209991,"sku":"tea-senchafukamushi-100g","price":16.15,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250g (100+ cups)","offer_id":33596829575,"sku":"tea-senchafukamushi-250g","price":38.4,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_540f1f88-4723-46f8-b628-2e430b64ed85.jpg?v=1609780165"},{"product_id":"himalayan-hand-rolled","title":"Nepal Himalayan Hand Rolled Tea","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the Sandakphu Tea Plantation, Jasbirey Village Ilam, Far East Nepal.  This light hand rolled black tea emits mellow flowery aromas of orchids and flowers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis tea will be delivered in our new compostable packaging \u0026gt;\u0026gt; read more  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/pages\/tea-education\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth....\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHimalayan Hand Rolled\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBimala Mukhia [pictured below looking over the withering beds].  The whole operation is headed up by Chandra Bhushan Subba \u0026amp; his wife Twistina pictured below with Michelle\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJasbirey Village, Maipokhari, Ilam, East Nepal\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe cooperative is currently comprised of 40 farmers over 10 hectares\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMay\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAV2\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrade\u003c\/strong\u003e : Orthodox \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003eOne\u003c\/span\u003e leaf and one bud\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWithered, rolled, oxidised and fired\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA light tea with flowery orchid aromas\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e June 2018, Michelle Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Western Style]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup\u003c\/strong\u003e (200 ml)\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 2.5g (1 teaspoon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e- 95℃ \/ 203℉\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 2-3 mins as desired\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNumber of infusions\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 2+\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow to enjoy\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Gaiwan]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAmount of tea per gaiwan (150 ml): \u003c\/b\u003e2.5 g (1 tsp)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/b\u003e 95℃ \/ 203℉\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time: \u003c\/b\u003e 2 minutes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/b\u003e 3\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/b\u003e No sugar, no milk (can take if desired)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Sandakphu\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSandakphu is the highest habitable point in the district of Ilam in the far eastern part of Nepal adjoining the Sikkim and Darjeeling hills of India. Sandakphu Tea Plantation is located at the foothills of Sandakphu Peak at a place known as Jasbirey Village and was initiated somewhere in the year 1990 with the plants derived from high quality tea varieties planted locally by ancient farmers migrating from other villages of Ilam district. The plantation is young and fresh nearing maturity and therefore, the quality of tea is considered very high as compared to many other tea areas of Nepal. The character and flavor profile of Sandakphu is unique to its bio-diversity and unique location found only in such high elevations (tea production unit is located at 6500 feet while the farmers plantations are as high as 8000 feet and plus).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWe crossed the border from India at Kakarvitta and started the long and windy path up to Ilam in Nepal.  I was full on anticipation to visit this co-operative - there is a special tone to tea from Sandakphu and my belief is that it is full of heart and positive intention.  Of course this intention has fed the soil, the tea making process, the gentle human touch.  The factory, which I always show to anyone who will listen :) is surely the most beautiful I have visited anywhere in the world \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Bhushan_5_medium.jpg?v=1552984961\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYou can taste all this in the cup from Sandakphu.  In my words '\u003ci\u003eSandakphu under the leadership of \u003cspan class=\"m_6302852356101842907gmail-il\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"il\"\u003eBhushan\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e and Twistina place equal emphasis on people, land and plant.  Their pioneering cooperative is aiming to be the first in Nepal to create complete transparency in the tea supply chain and in doing so set a standard for Nepal Tea to present to the world - ensuring a truly sustainable future for tea in this area and beyond'\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMichelle :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 80\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChandra is a one-man force for change in the Nepali tea industry, and his passion for tea started many years ago. He explained: \u003cem\u003e‘I had a real craze for tea drinking when I was young. Later, I found an opportunity to specialize in tea from Assam, and then did my postgraduate studies on green tea from Japan. Tea was therefore a natural choice for me. I found myself as the only tea expert in the country.’ [....]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 81\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e[....] \u003cem\u003eI feel strongly that quality is the key to getting recognized overseas. Quality lies with the farmer – bringing them on board, working as a partnership. When we started Sandapkhu our idea was to go to a remote area, make a small factory and start producing quality teas. In the end, our aim is to be able to help the farmers buy the factory back, and own and run it themselves. It’s an idea we have shared widely with the small tea growers and small factories across Nepal who come to us for training.’ \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFurther insight from our time at Sandakphu\u003cbr\u003e[not in the book!]\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe hills of Jasbirey stands parallel to the “Mai Pokhari Ramsar Site” a world heritage site in Nepal for wetlands. This tranquil environment makes the bio diversity of this place very unique, the pH of the water tested in Jasbirey is 7.2 and the ecology harbors many endangered species of wild flora and fauna Work at Sandakphu is carried out by the local farmers on their own land and therefore Sandakphu Tea is an entirely farmer based production with the ownership of the plantation remaining at the farmer level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBhushan shared with me how\u003cem\u003e 'self employed farmers and producers at Sandakphu believe that quality can be achieved only by those who have the sense of ownership of the garden because tea quality is defined from the green leaf that is fed to the factory for processing. Since ownership of the garden is at farmer level, the farmers can therefore grow and harvest only the finest leaf for processing as opposed those who work as a labor for the corporate plantations'\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRead more about our partner Bhushan and his life in tea here on our\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/in-their-own-words-stories-from-our-growers\"\u003eblog\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":33604034375,"sku":"","price":8.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":33604034439,"sku":"","price":16.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"250g (100+ cups)","offer_id":33604034503,"sku":"","price":38.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"15g","offer_id":35216110944414,"sku":"","price":3.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_2afe9938-9dee-4d85-b41d-fc86471f2bd0.jpg?v=1610814836"},{"product_id":"set-of-five-tea-samples","title":"Travel the world through a cup of Comins Tea :  FIVE Tea [approx 15g] Sample Set","description":"\u003cp\u003eNo need to leave the country to travel the world [which is lucky right now!] you can do it from the comfort of your own home through this selection of our carefully sourced teas  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA mix of 5 different teas to the value of £15 [approximate size 5 x 15g]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34766107463,"sku":"","price":15.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/72E343C7-4488-4F2B-881F-9475B1416D82.jpg?v=1763889272"},{"product_id":"green-tea-bundle","title":"2025 EXPLORE Green Tea [3 green tea gift box]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEnjoy the breadth of flavour and experience available from green tea \u003c\/span\u003ewith this selection of high quality green teas from around the world personally selected by Rob \u0026amp; Michelle Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe teas are beautifully packaged and include a information card on the teas included in the box\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e30g \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/2024-qi-hao-green?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=60fd6a980\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eQi Hao\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e30g\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/sencha-karigane?_pos=2\u0026amp;_sid=d23529993\u0026amp;_ss=r\u0026amp;variant=22498461575\"\u003e \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/sencha-karigane?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=0664e31f1\u0026amp;_ss=r\u0026amp;variant=22406207559\"\u003eSencha Karigane\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e30g \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/satemwa-zomba-steamed-green?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=c24431ce1\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eZomba Green\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34767379399,"sku":"","price":15.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/FullSizeRender_5989283c-b466-48fc-b925-8e4b2c546ae7.heic?v=1700753757"},{"product_id":"black-tea-bundle","title":"2025 EXPLORE Black Tea [3 tea gift box]","description":"\u003cp\u003eEnjoy a smooth and flavourful journey into the world of fine black tea with this selection of high quality black teas from around the world personally selected by Rob \u0026amp; Michelle Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe teas are beautifully packaged and include a information card on the teas included in the box\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e30g \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/nepal-ruby-black?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=6b17c964e\u0026amp;_ss=r\u0026amp;variant=7267779641395\"\u003eNepal Ruby Black\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e30g \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/second-flush-darjeeling-tea-niroulas-tea-cooperative?_pos=2\u0026amp;_sid=2330b5902\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eNiroulas Second Flush\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e30g Irie \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/mr-iries-couch?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=4f34bf675\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eKoucha\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34767408007,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/335994DE-05DF-483B-844A-5602BA9DC729.heic?v=1700753987"},{"product_id":"matcha-gift-set","title":"Matcha Gift Set","description":"\u003cp\u003eEverything you need to make the perfect bowl of Matcha - beautifully gift wrapped.  This gift set contains :-\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 x Matcha Whisk\u003cbr\u003e1 x Matcha Bowl [please specify white or black]\u003cbr\u003e1 x Matcha Superior 40g\u003cbr\u003e1 x Matcha Scoop\u003cbr\u003e1 x How to make Matcha guide\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34793988743,"sku":"","price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_4d3e09f6-613d-431b-98c0-551b9bcbe4f8.jpg?v=1606296983"},{"product_id":"culinary-houjicha","title":"Culinary Hojicha","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis powdered form of the roasted Japanese green tea we all know and love is suitable for culinary use. As you would expect it has a woody aroma and it is \u003cspan\u003enaturally sweet so great for a variety of uses in cooking from cakes to ice cream and more!  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSign up to our newsletter and check back on our website for great recipes using Hojicha powder.  \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34805119495,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/Culinary_Teas_751210f5-ecde-48cd-9cbd-685eea95dbcc.jpg?v=1480714952"},{"product_id":"yuchi-red-jade-t-18","title":"Yuchi Red Jade Black Tea T-18","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYu Chi Red Jade is a fresh, smooth, fruity and malty tea from a small family run farm in Nantou, Taiwan.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis tea will be delivered in our new compostable packaging \u0026gt;\u0026gt; read more  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/pages\/tea-education\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth.\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYu Chi Red Jade\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMr Li\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNear \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSun Moon Lake, Yu Chi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAugust\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eT-18\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHand picked, o\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ene leaf and one bud\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWithered, rolled, oxidised and fired\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSmooth, fruity and malty\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare [Western method]\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eAmount of tea per bowl (200 ml): \u003c\/b\u003e2.5 g (1 tsp)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/b\u003e 95-100\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℃\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \/ 212\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℉\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrepare at a lower temperature 90 C in order to bring down the tannins and enjoy a layered experience.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time:\u003c\/b\u003e 2-3 minutes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/b\u003e 3\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/b\u003e No sugar, no milk.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to prepare [Gong Fu] \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eAmount of tea per pot: \u003c\/b\u003e⅓ full of leaf\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/b\u003e 95-100\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℃\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrepare at a lower temperature 90 C in order to bring down the tannins and enjoy a layered experience.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time: \u003c\/b\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFirst brewing 30-40 seconds, pour into the teacup to maintain the thickness of the tea liquor. Then with each brewing, wait for 15-20 seconds more, and then drink. Each pot can brew 3-4 times.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/b\u003e 4+\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/b\u003e No sugar, no milk.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Yuchi Red Jade\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRob : \u003cem\u003eThis tea is grown on a garden run by two parents with their teenage boys helping out. No pesticides are used across the garden. The photo below\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e shows the garden,  with the leaf for Yu Chi Red Jade growing down the hill in a section without the Areca palm trees\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Yuchi_2_large.jpg?v=1553086248\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eWithin their garden grows several heritage Assamica tea trees, which were planted during the Japanese regime (1895-1945). These trees have grown from seeds and plants originated in Assam, Northern India and would have been planted by the Japanese to boost black tea production at the time. Japan did not want to disrupt their own green tea production.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMade from the Red Jade T 18 cultivar (hence the name) this orthodox Black Tea (or 紅茶 hóng chá “red tea”) is heavily oxidised. The dry leaf is in the form of twisted strips.  The tea makes a dark burgundy, brandy coloured liquor with a strong and sweet aroma.  The tannins are very supple, not overpowering like many summer T-18. Over the multiple infusions possible with this tea the complexity of the flavours appear and the lingering aftertaste becomes more apparent.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eI would therefore recommend this tea for those exploring the texture and tone of black tea more widely.  It certainly also has the complex nature to interest more established drinkers.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":46598379859,"sku":"Yuchi Red Jade Black Tea T-18","price":3.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":46598379923,"sku":"Yuchi Red Jade Black Tea T-18","price":12.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":46598379987,"sku":"Yuchi Red Jade Black Tea T-18","price":23.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250g (100+ cups)","offer_id":8440962220083,"sku":"","price":58.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_622e7b4e-4251-49e3-9d7d-f1390c25ab9d.jpg?v=1610808564"},{"product_id":"8g-dragon-pearls-mengku-sheng-puer-ancient-tree","title":"2018 Sheng Puer : A Bai La co-operative Jingmai mountain","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the A Bai La co-operative on Jingmai mountain this 2018 Sheng Puer delivers a light, smooth \u0026amp; zingy cup which brings centre \u0026amp; balance \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth..\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e2018 Sheng Puer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003eMr NanKang\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin :\u003c\/b\u003e A Bai La Co-operative, MangJing Village, Mount Jingmai, Puer County, Yunnan Province, China \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan\u003e180 families \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eApril 2018\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAncient Tree, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003emedium sized leaves \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e2-3 leaves \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003eP\u003c\/span\u003eick the fresh leaf, wait 3 hours, put it in wok to kill the green, roll for 15-20 mins and then sun dry for 1 -2 days.  \u003cem\u003e In the opinion of the team at \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eA Bai La\u003c\/em\u003e the \u003c\/span\u003etea should sit and balance after processing - ideally for 5 months - before compression\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003eA\u003c\/span\u003e light, smooth \u0026amp; zingy cup which brings centre \u0026amp; balance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e June 2019, Michelle Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Gaiwan]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eAmount of tea per bowl (200 ml): \u003c\/b\u003e2.5 g (1 tsp)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/b\u003e 100\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℃\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \/ 212\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℉\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time: \u003c\/b\u003e1st infusion 30 seconds then 15 seconds thereafter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/b\u003e 8\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/b\u003e No sugar, no milk\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : A Bai La Co-Operative\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #999999;\"\u003ePuer \u003cem\u003efor preservation\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMichelle first visited Mr NanKang \u0026amp; the A Bai La Cooperative in 2016 and below you can read an extract from that first visit.  Below this extract you can also access two of our most recent blogs from travels back to see Mr Nankang in 2019 - when you have read these I hope you will feel inspired, like us, to drink and enjoy this most special of tea and see the balance and harmony it can bring.  Simply magic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 35\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/collections\/our-book\"\u003eExtract from tales of the tea trade : \u003c\/a\u003e '\u003cem\u003eFlying into Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, it took a gruelling 9 hours to reach Jinghong in the far south. This is a region well known for its rich and diverse styles of tea, and it was the puer tea, a unique style that originated in the region, and the black teas, in particular Dian Hong, that I had come to see [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eYunnan province is a land very different from the modern cultivation and terraced tea elds you see in other parts of the world. Here, ancient tea trees, some hundreds of years old, are cultivated in natural forests rich with biodiversity...The experience was to be a magical one, and it was Mr Nankang who inspired us to write the book [...]  In about 180 AD, the Blang ethnic minority group migrated through the area and discovered tea. Limited available land meant that they started to cultivate tea trees in the forest [..] The area is now the largest and best-preserved cultivated ancient tree plantation in the world [..] the \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eprime conditions here only exist because of the understanding gained by the farmers through studying nature over time[...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Ancient_tree_4_grande.jpg?v=1560342908\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe tea here is high quality and highly valued, requiring no pesticides or fertilizers However, Mr Nankang explained how the local people, with limited processing and marketing skills, lose out in the value chain[....]many locals have now formed a cooperative in Mangjing with Mr Nankang as their executive [...] By working together to process and market their own teas they can realize more of the profits and gain support on matters such as forest protection and tea forest conservation, which they work on with the support of scientists [...] As we tasted our way through their teas, it felt as though we were being invited, through the tea cup, to join a wonderful club, a club more connected with the earth and the environment than anywhere else I have ever visited [....] end of extract \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/collections\/our-book\"\u003efrom tales of the tea trade :\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 36\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Mr_Nan_5ce8cf26-d98d-4bda-9b4c-9466cb9e78b3_grande.jpg?v=1560339952\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two most recent blogs from Michelle's return trip to Mr Nankang and the magnificent Jingmai mountain can be found here \u0026gt;\u0026gt; \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/2MFdgvI\"\u003eBlog 1 : Into the Ancient Tea Forest \u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/china-day-4\"\u003eBlog 2 : Mr Nan and the ancient tea trees of the Bulang\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Tea_Time_4_grande.jpg?v=1560368416\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"30g","offer_id":4866202239013,"sku":"A Bai La 30g","price":16.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_fdcc4bf4-1693-458f-b330-7ec5a620b06f.jpg?v=1620234252"},{"product_id":"mr-sakamotos-okumidori-gyokuro-tea","title":"Mr Sakamoto's Gyokuro [Okumidori]","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tea makes a light green liquor and has a fresh, green aroma.  The okumidori cultivar creates a strong umami flavoured tea offering an delicious insight into the beauty and richness of Kagoshima teas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin :\u003c\/b\u003e Mr Sakamoto's Tea Farm, \u003c\/span\u003eKagoshima, Kyushu Island, Japan \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 hectares\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eSpring\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003eOkumidori\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003eMachine harvested\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/strong\u003eGyokuro is grown under shade for the last twenty days before harvesting, a technique which helps create its sweet taste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003eS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003etrong \u0026amp; umami-rich with a green scent. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 101\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e October\u003c\/span\u003e 2017, Rob Comins \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare [Kyusu]\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cstrong style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml): \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003e5g (one \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/tea-caddy-spoons\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Tea Caddy Spoons\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003e)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water: \u003c\/strong\u003e60℃ \/ 140℉\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time: \u003c\/strong\u003e1-3 minutes \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3-4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Mr Sakamoto\\\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRob :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003eMr Sakamoto and his brother cut an inspiring presence [...] The calmness, warmth and quiet expertise they present is common to many tea farmers, but they also give out an incredible energy. I soon realise that this comes from a deep passion for the farm, its soil, the plants and the organic manner they have chosen to adopt [...]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 45\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMr Sakamoto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003e‘Our family has 80 years of history in tea, as our grandfather used to grow tea to sell to customers in the local town [....] When we took over we decided to reduce the size to concentrate on making high-quality tea [...] \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe land is better for sweeter teas [...] We continue to work in tea because we want to drink better tea and make healthy tea [...] We use machines to pick our tea and make only gyokuro, but also gyokuro powdered tea and gyokuro matcha [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Mr_Sakamoto_grande.jpg?v=1556040221\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 46\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e‘Our tea is organic. We make our own bokashi fertilizer on the farm from sesame fibre, rapeseed oil cake, mineral from rocks, silica and a mixture of fermented fish stock and black vinegar [...] We pick only once a year, as more picking will take too much from the plants. After picking we prune the bushes by around 30 centimetres, and these cuttings are left on the ground as compost to feed the good bacteria and promote the soil' [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRob :\u003c\/strong\u003e When you drink Mr Sakamoto’s tea you taste all of the above. That umami flavour is magnified, so it rolls around your mouth, zapping your jaw and continues to change in the aftertaste for a long time. Every decision he takes is to create that moment for his drinkers......\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWant to learn more?  \u003cspan\u003eTheres so much more to this story but you will have to come and see us, taste Mr Sakamoto's tea or read the book \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003eto get further inspired by Mr Sakamoto.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":4876018122789,"sku":"tea-gyokuro-taster-15g","price":7.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"30g","offer_id":4876018155557,"sku":"tea-gyokuro-taster-50g","price":14.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"60g","offer_id":8429201195059,"sku":"","price":27.55,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"120g","offer_id":8429225246771,"sku":"","price":52.35,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_f383fd67-2861-4742-a3e0-1f9750bd4805.jpg?v=1609862583"},{"product_id":"pao-zhong-oolong-tea","title":"Taiwan Bao Zhong : Sijichun Oolong Tea","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA beautifully \u003cspan\u003efloral tea with a creamy buttery finish.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003eMr Chen\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eLeaf Origin \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMr Chen : 1\/5 Hectare : \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMing Jian Township , Nantou,  300-400metres above sea level  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003c\/strong\u003e 1\/5 hectare\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time \u003c\/b\u003eEnd of April\/Early May\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSijichun  \u003cem\u003eInterested to learn more about Taiwanese tea style, cultivar \u0026amp; terroir? click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/3fjnL0E\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e to read our blog on the topic\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003eStyle  : \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003eStrip, unrolled\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard \u003c\/b\u003eMachine plucked\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOxidation Level :\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e10-15%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA beautifully \u003cspan\u003efloral tea with a creamy buttery finish.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eGaiwan method of brewing Bao Zhong Oolong Tea\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup\u003c\/strong\u003e (250 ml)\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 3g \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 80℃ \/ 176℉\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e- \u003cspan\u003e3-5 minutes then increase steeping time for subsequent brewing. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 6\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBao Zhong Oolong is a light tea and so is great in the afternoon or as an after dinner drink.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":5010613567525,"sku":"Bao Zhong","price":12.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":8440964808755,"sku":"","price":23.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_994768f8-f2d1-4f92-8b43-3fcea9acf747.jpg?v=1609954801"},{"product_id":"mr-iries-high-grade-sencha","title":"Mr Irie's High Grade Sencha","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cspan\u003erefreshing full flavour Sencha delivering remarkable umami with a great balance between sweetness and bitterness.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin :\u003c\/b\u003e Toshiro Irie's Tea Farm,\u003c\/span\u003eYame, Fukuoka, Kyushu Island\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 hectares \u003cem\u003e[over several land plots]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eFirst Harvest\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eYabukita, Saemidori\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYoung Leaves, full sunlight\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eStrong and refreshing taste, remarkable umami, great balance between sweetness and bitterness\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e October\u003c\/span\u003e 2017, Rob Comins \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to prepare [Kyusu]\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e5g (one tea caddy spoon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 80℃ \/ 176℉ (boil kettle, cool for 60 seconds)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 minute (or as desired)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4*\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*\u003cem\u003ePossible number of times you can re-brew using the same leaves.  \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis tea can be infused\/brewed multiple times, just place the leaves to one side and reuse\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Irie-San\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #999999;\"\u003eThe \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003egreenest\u003c\/span\u003e of greens\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRob meant Mr Irie on his October trip to Fukuoka and was immediately captivated by his passion for soil commitment to the land.  You may remember from our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/cominstea\/?hl=en\"\u003esocial media\u003c\/a\u003e that he even convinced Rob to taste the soil.  We are delighted to welcome three of his amazing teas to Comins.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRob :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 12\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRob: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMr Toshiro started out as a fruit and vegetable farmer, but after a bout of ill health, and discovering the health-giving qualities of green tea, he set out to produce the healthiest tea he could, with no chemicals to be added. For him, this started with one thing: the soil [....] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe described how 1 gram of soil contains 1 billion bacteria, and that the fertilizer he makes is for these bacteria, not the tea plants. Feeding the bacteria maintains the life cycle and balance of the soil, resulting in better tea plants [...] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe showed me a sign indicating that the garden is Organic JAS (Japanese Agricultural Standards) certified, and tells me that his was the first tea garden in Japan to achieve this [....]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Toshiro_1_c80fc585-1568-4b5e-9e05-2532b19f8719_grande.jpg?v=1553458372\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMr Toshiro’s approach has not been the easiest path. When he started, he told me, the surrounding farmers didn’t understand about pesticides and organic cultivation, so the slopes were starting to get into bad condition. \u003cem\u003e‘Growing organically is a life choice, so we spent five years building strongly, and over the course of five more years I finally made a tea.’ [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTheres so much more to this story but you will have to come and see us, taste his tea or read the book\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003eto get further inspired by Mr Irie.  In fact why not do all three at the same time!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy not try at the Tea House? \u003c\/strong\u003e Light, refreshing \u0026amp; gently grassy - the best way to enjoy this tea is through our Japanese tasting experience.  At the Tea House we offer you the chance to taste the tea through three infusions prepared at different temperatures - offering you the rich umami, bitterness \u0026amp; strength of this high grade tea.  Delicious.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":6864250470451,"sku":"tea-high grade sencha-2","price":18.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g","offer_id":35215891693726,"sku":"","price":34.2,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250g","offer_id":35215895429278,"sku":"","price":84.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_37e618be-5284-4112-9d98-b48dc9efe433.jpg?v=1609597251"},{"product_id":"mr-iries-houjicha","title":"Mr Irie's Houjicha [Yabukita, Kanaya Midori]","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMr Irie's Houjicha is unbelievably rich and sweet with a lasting nuttiness : a profile which is testament to the farming practices of Irie San.  Great nourishment for cooler days or a cup of comfort for others\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin :\u003c\/b\u003e Toshiro Irie's Tea Farm,\u003c\/span\u003eYame, Fukuoka, Kyushu Island\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 hectares\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e[over several land plots]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eSecond Harvest\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eYabukita, Kanaya Midori\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003eF\u003c\/span\u003eirmly grown leaves\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eRoasted, nutty and savoury\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e October\u003c\/span\u003e 2017, Rob Comins \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to prepare [Kyusu]\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e5g (one tea caddy spoon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100 C \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 1\u003c\/span\u003e minute (or as desired)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4*\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eNo milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*\u003cem\u003ePossible number of times you can re-brew using the same leaves.  \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis tea can be infused\/brewed multiple times, just place the leaves to one side and reuse\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Irie-San\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRob meant Mr Irie on his October trip to Fukuoka and was immediately captivated by his passion for soil commitment to the land.  You may remember from our\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/cominstea\/?hl=en\"\u003esocial media\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethat he even convinced Rob to taste the soil.  We are delighted to welcome three of his amazing teas to Comins.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRob :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 12\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRob: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMr Toshiro started out as a fruit and vegetable farmer, but after a bout of ill health, and discovering the health-giving qualities of green tea, he set out to produce the healthiest tea he could, with no chemicals to be added. For him, this started with one thing: the soil [....] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe described how 1 gram of soil contains 1 billion bacteria, and that the fertilizer he makes is for these bacteria, not the tea plants. Feeding the bacteria maintains the life cycle and balance of the soil, resulting in better tea plants [...] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe showed me a sign indicating that the garden is Organic JAS (Japanese Agricultural Standards) certified, and tells me that his was the first tea garden in Japan to achieve this [....]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Toshiro_1_c80fc585-1568-4b5e-9e05-2532b19f8719_grande.jpg?v=1553458372\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMr Toshiro’s approach has not been the easiest path. When he started, he told me, the surrounding farmers didn’t understand about pesticides and organic cultivation, so the slopes were starting to get into bad condition. \u003cem\u003e‘Growing organically is a life choice, so we spent five years building strongly, and over the course of five more years I finally made a tea.’ [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTheres so much more to this story but you will have to come and see us, taste his tea or read the book \u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003eto get further inspired by Mr Irie.  In fact why not do all three at the same time!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":6864345530419,"sku":"irie san houjicha","price":9.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g","offer_id":32233864626313,"sku":"","price":17.1,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250g","offer_id":32233873670281,"sku":"","price":42.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_6c5db3f2-415d-4f42-8d45-462448c36061.jpg?v=1609597320"},{"product_id":"mr-iries-couch","title":"Mr Irie's Koucha Tea","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the garden of the irrepressible Mr Irie t\u003cspan\u003ehis Japanese Koucha is light, bright and sweet black tea with a very distinct difference from other black teas. It is reinfusable and leaves a refreshing, gentle taste.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis tea will be delivered in our new compostable packaging \u0026gt;\u0026gt; read more  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/pages\/tea-education\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth....\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003eKoucha\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003eMr Toshiro Irie\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin :\u003c\/b\u003e Fukuoka, Kyushu, Japan\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e Two hectares\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eSecond Harvest\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003eSaemadori\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003eHand picked.  One leaf and one bud\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWithered, rolled, oxidised and fired.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLight \u0026amp; luxuriant fragrance and profile with low astringency\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e October 2017, Rob Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Kyusu]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAmount of tea per bowl (200 ml): \u003c\/b\u003e2.5 g (1 tsp)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/b\u003e 100\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℃\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \/ 212\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℉\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time: \u003c\/b\u003e2 minutes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/b\u003e 4\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/b\u003e No sugar, no milk\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Mr Toshiro Irie\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRob meant Mr Irie on his October trip to Fukuoka and was immediately captivated by his passion for soil commitment to the land.  You may remember from our social media that he even convinced Rob to taste the soil.  We are delighted to welcome three of his amazing teas to Comins \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRob :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 12\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e[...] Mr Toshiro started out as a fruit and vegetable farmer, but after a bout of ill health, and discovering the health-giving qualities of green tea, he set out to produce the healthiest tea he could, with no chemicals to be added. For him, this started with one thing: the soil [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e[...] Mr Toshiro’s approach has not been the easiest path. When he started, he told me, the surrounding farmers didn’t understand about pesticides and organic cultivation, so the slopes were starting to get into bad condition. ‘Growing organically is a life choice, so we spent ve years building strongly, and over the course of five more years I finally made a tea'\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Toshiro_1_large.jpg?v=1553087218\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 12\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e[..] Mr Toshiro has control over every stage of production, undertaking the growing and picking himself and closely overseeing the processing at a nearby factory [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFurther insight from Mr Toshiro Iries Farm \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe world needs more people like Irie-San :\u003c\/strong\u003e Many people may not be aware that the domestic [home] market for Japanese tea  is actually in decline making it more important than ever to have positive role models such as Mr Irie who will promote 'quality' over quantity as a recipe for future success.  Recently Irie-san shared with us how his goal \u003cem\u003e\"is to transform his whole town of Kuroki-cho into an organic-only town\"\u003c\/em\u003e  He points out that if there are new sales channels opening that can give a new start to the declining green tea industry then young farmers will get into organic. Right now, Irie san and his team are teaching young motivated producers how to do it and are willing to do even more.  Supporting gardens like this supports the growth of this important work and aside from delicious tea a better future for tea, tea farmers and the planet.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJapanese black tea?  \u003c\/strong\u003e‘Koucha’ means ‘red’ tea in Japanese. ‘Red’ tea is the Chinese word what we in the West know as Black tea. As Japan is heavily influenced by its close neighbour China, this is why they choose to describe it this way.  Japanese black tea isn’t known widely outside Japan, but there is enormous potential because of how different it is. You’ll find that this black tea is quite different from those produced in other countries such as India. This has to do with the different tea cultivars used, as well as Japan’s climate, soil conditions and processing methods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":6864380002355,"sku":"irie san koucha","price":15.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_167e9127-8b7c-44e0-ab4c-17c930d081fc.jpg?v=1610644503"},{"product_id":"nepal-ruby-black","title":"Nepal Ruby Black","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the Sandakphu Tea Plantation, Jasbirey Village Ilam, Far East Nepal Ruby depicts 'fire'.  The character of Ruby is strength, aliveness and a lasting gentle finish.  Try it as an alternative to breakfast tea! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis tea will be delivered in our new compostable packaging \u0026gt;\u0026gt; read more  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/pages\/tea-education\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth....\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRuby Black\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003eBimala Mukhia \u003cem\u003e[pictured below looking over the withering beds].\u003c\/em\u003e  The whole operation is headed up by Chandra Bhushan Subba \u0026amp; his wife Twistina pictured below with Michelle\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJasbirey Village, Maipokhari, Ilam, East Nepal\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e 135 individual farmers with more than 75% of the production coming from 46 households.  These families farm around 60 acres of land in total\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMarch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e383\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrade\u003c\/strong\u003e : Orthodox \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOne leaves and one bud\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWithered, rolled, oxidised and fired\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e A flavourful black tea that embodies the characters of strength, and 'aliveness' while delivering a lasting gentle finish.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e June 2018, Michelle Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Western Style]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eAmount of tea per bowl (200 ml): \u003c\/b\u003e2.5 g (1 tsp)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/b\u003e 100\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℃\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \/ 212\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℉\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time: \u003c\/b\u003e3 minutes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/b\u003e 3\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/b\u003e No sugar, no milk (can take if desired).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Gaiwan]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAmount of tea per gaiwan (150 ml): \u003c\/b\u003e2.5 g (1 tsp)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/b\u003e 100\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℃\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \/ 212\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℉\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time: \u003c\/b\u003e 2 minutes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/b\u003e 4\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/b\u003e No sugar, no milk (can take if desired)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Sandakphu\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #999999;\"\u003eA strong \u0026amp; empowering breakfast tea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSandakphu is the highest habitable point in the district of Ilam in the far eastern part of Nepal adjoining the Sikkim and Darjeeling hills of India. Sandakphu Tea Plantation is located at the foothills of Sandakphu Peak at a place known as Jasbirey Village and was initiated somewhere in the year 1990 with the plants derived from high quality tea varieties planted locally by ancient farmers migrating from other villages of Ilam district. The plantation is young and fresh nearing maturity and therefore, the quality of tea is considered very high as compared to many other tea areas of Nepal. The character and flavor profile of Sandakphu is unique to its bio-diversity and unique location found only in such high elevations (tea production unit is located at 6500 feet while the farmers plantations are as high as 8000 feet and plus).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWe crossed the border from India at Kakarvitta and started the long and windy path up to Ilam in Nepal.  I was full on anticipation to visit this co-operative - there is a special tone to tea from Sandakphu and my belief is that it is full of heart and positive intention.  Of course this intention has fed the soil, the tea making process, the gentle human touch.  The factory, which I always show to anyone who will listen :) is surely the most beautiful I have visited anywhere in the world \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Bhushan_5_medium.jpg?v=1552984961\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYou can taste all this in the cup from Sandakphu.  In my words '\u003ci\u003eSandakphu under the leadership of \u003cspan class=\"m_6302852356101842907gmail-il\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"il\"\u003eBhushan\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e and Twistina place equal emphasis on people, land and plant.  Their pioneering cooperative is aiming to be the first in Nepal to create complete transparency in the tea supply chain and in doing so set a standard for Nepal Tea to present to the world - ensuring a truly sustainable future for tea in this area and beyond'\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMichelle :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 80\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChandra is a one-man force for change in the Nepali tea industry, and his passion for tea started many years ago. He explained: \u003cem\u003e‘I had a real craze for tea drinking when I was young. Later, I found an opportunity to specialize in tea from Assam, and then did my postgraduate studies on green tea from Japan. Tea was therefore a natural choice for me. I found myself as the only tea expert in the country.’ [....]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 81\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e[....] \u003cem\u003eI feel strongly that quality is the key to getting recognized overseas. Quality lies with the farmer – bringing them on board, working as a partnership. When we started Sandapkhu our idea was to go to a remote area, make a small factory and start producing quality teas. In the end, our aim is to be able to help the farmers buy the factory back, and own and run it themselves. It’s an idea we have shared widely with the small tea growers and small factories across Nepal who come to us for training.’ \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFurther insight from our time at Sandakphu\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe hills of Jasbirey stands parallel to the “Mai Pokhari Ramsar Site” a world heritage site in Nepal for wetlands. This tranquil environment makes the bio diversity of this place very unique, the pH of the water tested in Jasbirey is 7.2 and the ecology harbors many endangered species of wild flora and fauna Work at Sandakphu is carried out by the local farmers on their own land and therefore Sandakphu Tea is an entirely farmer based production with the ownership of the plantation remaining at the farmer level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBhushan shared with me how\u003cem\u003e 'self employed farmers and producers at Sandakphu believe that quality can be achieved only by those who have the sense of ownership of the garden because tea quality is defined from the green leaf that is fed to the factory for processing. Since ownership of the garden is at farmer level, the farmers can therefore grow and harvest only the finest leaf for processing as opposed those who work as a labor for the corporate plantations'\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRead more about our partner Bhushan and his life in tea here on our\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/in-their-own-words-stories-from-our-growers\"\u003eblog\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":7267779641395,"sku":"Ruby-Black-50","price":6.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":7267779674163,"sku":"Ruby-Black-50-100","price":12.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250g (100+ cups)","offer_id":7267779706931,"sku":"Ruby-Black-50-250","price":31.25,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"15g","offer_id":35216102752414,"sku":"","price":3.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_1c772f3e-bc50-44d1-80d0-88a9b7a3e3cd.jpg?v=1610644365"},{"product_id":"jin-xuan-lightly-oxidised","title":"Jin Xuan (lightly oxidised) Oolong Tea","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA Spring picked tea with a naturally milky character\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE :\u003c\/strong\u003e We often get asked about 'milk' oolong and in doing so many people are referring to a tea that has actually been 'flavoured'.  At Comins we only deal in natural teas and the great news is that there is a natural tea that has a \u003cspan class=\"il\"\u003emilky\u003c\/span\u003e character and this is usually from the Jin Xuan cultivar.  You can read more about this tea on our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/2uKawke\"\u003eblog\u003c\/a\u003e \u0026gt;\u0026gt; \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth....\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"im\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTea maker : Processed by : \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan color=\"#212b36\" style=\"color: #212b36;\"\u003eTsai Brothers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeaf Origin :\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan color=\"#212b36\" style=\"color: #212b36;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTsai Brothers tea garden \u003c\/span\u003eNantou County Taiwan\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan color=\"#ff0000\" style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize of garden:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 hectare total, split into 3 cultivars \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"im\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest Time :\u003c\/strong\u003e Spring\u003cspan color=\"#212b36\" style=\"color: #212b36;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCultivar :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan color=\"#212b36\"\u003eJin Xuan TRES No 12, Rolled Ball Style to learn more about the different Taiwanese cultivars chosen for these teas \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/all-about-taiwanese-oolong?_pos=7\u0026amp;_sid=c39f06879\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003ewhy not have a read of this blog\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan color=\"#212b36\" style=\"color: #212b36;\"\u003eFour or Five Leaves\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProcessing :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan\u003e15% oxidised\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan color=\"#212b36\" style=\"color: #212b36;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExperience :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan\u003eDelicious silky smooth creamy flavour\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWestern method of brewing Jin Xuan Oolong Tea\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup\u003c\/strong\u003e (200 ml)\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 5g (2 teaspoon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 80℃ \/ 176℉\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e- 2 mins 1st infusion, 1 minute subsequent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 6+\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTraditional Gong Fu method of brewing Jin Xuan Oolong Tea\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup\u003c\/strong\u003e (150 ml)\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- Fill 1\/5 - 1\/3 teapot with leaves\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 80℃ \/ 176℉\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e- Firstly fill vessel and then immediately discard water. Then 45 seconds 1st infusion, 20 seconds for further infusions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 8+\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow to enjoy\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":8499002081331,"sku":"Jin-Xuan-oolong-taster","price":3.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":8499002114099,"sku":"Jin-Xuan-oolong-50g","price":9.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":8499002146867,"sku":"Jin-Xuan-oolong-100g","price":17.1,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250g (100+ cups)","offer_id":8499002179635,"sku":"Jin-Xuan-oolong-250g","price":40.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_8fd3eb1a-ce60-46cc-97fa-b531efb9305b.jpg?v=1609954726"},{"product_id":"spring-gaba-oolong","title":"Spring GABA","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA distinctive fruity, uniquely biscuity oolong made using the unique v\u003c\/span\u003eacuum tank (GABA process) described below.  Perfect as an accompaniment to food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eIn more depth\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003eMr. Yu\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eLeaf Origin :\u003c\/b\u003e Mr Yu, 1\/3 hectare, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBaguashan, Mingjian Township, Nantou, Taiwan\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eSpring\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eNote : \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan color=\"#ff2600\" style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eSpring is the best time to buy Gaba tea. Aromatics and sweetness is higher with less astringency -\u003cspan\u003e teas are more fruity and less tannic.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003eQing Xin\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e4 or 5 leaves\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/oolong-worth-a-special-mention-gaba\"\u003eVacuum tank (GABA process)\u003c\/a\u003e, No Baking\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDistinctive fruity, slightly tart flavour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Summer\u003c\/span\u003e 2017, Rob Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Gong Fu Style]\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml): \u003c\/strong\u003e5g (1\/3 of a pot)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 80℃ \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 45 seconds then 20 seconds as desired\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 5 +\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eNo milk, no sugar \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Western Style]\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e 5g (one \u003ca title=\"Tea Caddy Spoon\" href=\"\/products\/tea-caddy-spoon\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90℃ \/ 195℉ (boil kettle, cool for 20 seconds)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 minutes (or as desired). Add 1 minute for each further infusion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 to 4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Spring GABA\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 62\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRob :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e:\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMr Yu :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003e‘I have been in the tea business 35 years. I never wanted to be in tea, but I had to return to look after my parents [....] My father talked to me about rice, but I had realized tea was easier and would make more money [...] \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Mr_Yu_grande.jpg?v=1555865329\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMr Yu started making GABA tea around 10 years ago after a seminar by the Tea Research and Extension Station. [He] was told he would not be able to do it himself, so of course he did. The key piece of equipment for this is a metal tank which has the air pumped out of it, creating a vacuum. Mr Yu made the tank he currently uses, which is his second. His first one imploded because it wasn’t strong enough [.....] \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e[....] Mr Yu is positive about the future. ‘When Chiang Kai-shek came over in 1949 with the military there was a very short-term perspective on agriculture, and in the 1950s and 60s there was heavy use of chemicals in farming. Today some of the most wealthy people are the pesticide and fertilizer sellers. However, we have no GMO crops, no massive corporations and we have small stakeholders. This model means that if we want it and if we make it, change can happen.’ If anyone disagrees, this will simply spur Mr Yu on...read the full story in \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003eour book \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth : Whats this 'GABA' all about?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGABA actually \u003cspan class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-s2\"\u003estands for gamma-aminobutyric acid, so not a normal source for a name of a tea.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-s1\"\u003e GABA tea is a relatively new type of tea that was first produced in 1987 in Japan by \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-s3\"\u003eDr. Tsushida Tojiro\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-s1\"\u003e. GABA itself is an amino acid that occurs naturally in the human body (as well as the tea plant) and is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter found in the nervous system.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-s1\"\u003eThe process for making this unique tea starts with high grade tea, as this has a higher amount of natural glutamic acid which is the precursor to GABA. The tea plants are often shaded for about ten days prior to being picked as this has been found to increase levels of glutamic acid even further. The fresh leaf is placed in a stainless steel container, oxygen is removed and replaced with nitrogen. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/GABA_grande.jpg?v=1555839098\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-s1\"\u003eThe tea is exposed to this anaerobic, nitrogen-rich atmosphere and a temperature of above 40C for around eight hours.  This results in the conversion of the glutamic acid in the leaves into GABA.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSo what does a higher level of GABA mean for the tea?\u003c\/strong\u003e Much of the develop was focused on the health affects. In addition to all the healthy benefits of tea drinking, it’s claimed by many that increased GABA decreases stress and anxiety, helps to improve memory and alertness, aids in weight loss, and acts as a natural sleep aid. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWith all health claims we at Comins advise you to carry out your own research and approach on the cautious side.\u003c\/strong\u003e Certainly Doctors at New York University’s Langone Medical Center write that “when GABA is taken orally, GABA levels in the brain do not increase, presumably because the substance itself cannot pass the blood-brain barrier and enter the central nervous system.” Also, the presence of L-theanine in tea encourages the production of more GABA, thus contributing to the above benefits without the need the process.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_8447072021437482426gmail-s1\"\u003eWhat cannot be argued is that GABA tea has a distinctly different aroma and flavor profile from other oolongs. The process raises the level of catechins called gallate esters, which are responsible for the aroma of many fruits, spices and herbs. This is part of the reason for the uniqueness of the GABA aromas and flavours. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":8508702294067,"sku":"Spring Gaba Oolong 15g","price":3.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":8508702326835,"sku":"Spring Gaba Oolong 50g","price":8.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":8508702359603,"sku":"Spring Gaba Oolong 100g","price":16.15,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250g (100+ cups)","offer_id":8508923281459,"sku":"Spring Gaba Oolong 250g","price":38.4,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_05b83b65-3e96-421c-b0d5-a0fe1901a7fd.jpg?v=1610889760"},{"product_id":"mr-sakamotos-saemadori-gyokuro-tea","title":"Mr Sakamoto's Gyokuro [Saemidori]","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tea makes a light green liquor and has a fresh, green aroma.  This tea is beautifully mild, sweet and slightly astringent offering an delicious insight into the beauty and richness of Kagoshima teas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin :\u003c\/b\u003e Mr Sakamoto's Tea Farm, \u003c\/span\u003eKagoshima, Kyushu Island, Japan \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 hectares\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eSpring\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003eSaemidori\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003eMachine harvested\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/strong\u003eGyokuro is grown under shade for the last twenty days before harvesting, a technique which helps create its sweet taste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSaemidori is beautifully mild, sweet and slightly astringent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e October\u003c\/span\u003e 2017, Rob Comins \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare [Kyusu]\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml): \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e5g (one \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/wired-canvas.myshopify.com\/products\/tea-caddy-spoons\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Tea Caddy Spoons\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water: \u003c\/strong\u003e60℃ \/ 140℉\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time:\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e1-3 minutes \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e3-4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Mr Sakamoto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRob :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMr Sakamoto and his brother cut an inspiring presence [...] The calmness, warmth and quiet expertise they present is common to many tea farmers, but they also give out an incredible energy. I soon realise that this comes from a deep passion for the farm, its soil, the plants and the organic manner they have chosen to adopt [...]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 45\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMr Sakamoto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003e‘Our family has 80 years of history in tea, as our grandfather used to grow tea to sell to customers in the local town [....] When we took over we decided to reduce the size to concentrate on making high-quality tea [...] \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe land is better for sweeter teas [...] We continue to work in tea because we want to drink better tea and make healthy tea [...] We use machines to pick our tea and make only gyokuro, but also gyokuro powdered tea and gyokuro matcha [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Mr_Sakamoto_grande.jpg?v=1556040221\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 46\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e‘Our tea is organic. We make our own bokashi fertilizer on the farm from sesame fibre, rapeseed oil cake, mineral from rocks, silica and a mixture of fermented fish stock and black vinegar [...] We pick only once a year, as more picking will take too much from the plants. After picking we prune the bushes by around 30 centimetres, and these cuttings are left on the ground as compost to feed the good bacteria and promote the soil' [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRob :\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eWhen you drink Mr Sakamoto’s tea you taste all of the above. That umami flavour is magnified, so it rolls around your mouth, zapping your jaw and continues to change in the aftertaste for a long time. Every decision he takes is to create that moment for his drinkers......\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWant to learn more?  \u003cspan\u003eTheres so much more to this story but you will have to come and see us, taste Mr Sakamoto's tea or read the book \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003eto get further inspired by Mr Sakamoto.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":8509286285363,"sku":"tea-gyokuro-taster-15g","price":7.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"30g","offer_id":8509286318131,"sku":"tea-gyokuro-taster-50g","price":14.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"60g","offer_id":8509286350899,"sku":"","price":27.55,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"120g","offer_id":8509286383667,"sku":"","price":52.35,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_acf5a0d5-7932-4229-8620-43fb70263641.jpg?v=1609512279"},{"product_id":"nuxalbari-2018-second-flush","title":"Nuxalbari 2025 Second Flush","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA delicately smooth \u0026amp; aromatic second flush loose leaf tea from the astonishing Sonia Jabbar [5th generation] and her team at the regenerative, organic \u0026amp; biodynamic Nuxalbari Tea Estate in the Do-oars, North East India.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis tea will be delivered in our new compostable packaging \u0026gt;\u0026gt; read more  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/pages\/tea-education\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/bH05lHE4gQE\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth....\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eNuxalbari 2025 Second Flush\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003eSonia Jabbar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin :\u003c\/b\u003e Nuxalbari Tea Estate, Naxalbari Dist. Darjeeling, West Bengal\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan\u003e1200-acres \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time :\u003c\/b\u003e May 2025\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eSecond Flush is made from the new growth of the tea plant a few months after the first harvest of the year, hence the ‘second flush’.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003eThe organic sections are TV 25-26 with a few TV1 \u0026amp; TV 17. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrade\u003c\/strong\u003e : Organic SFTGFOP1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e5-7 day rounds year round.  2 leaves \u0026amp; a bud, 1 leaf 1 bud\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWithered, rolled, oxidised and fired.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience :\u003c\/b\u003e The tea makes a \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003esmooth \u0026amp; aromatic cup - delivering a beautifully warming \u0026amp; refreshing cup\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e July 2018, Michelle Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Western Style]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5g (half a \u003ca title=\"Tea Caddy Spoon\" href=\"http:\/\/www.cominsteahouse.co.uk\/index.php\/teaware\/tea-spoons.html\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 95℃ \/ 185℉ (boil kettle, cool for 20 seconds)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3-4 minutes (or as desired)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Nuxalbari\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLocated in Darjeeling District, Nuxalbari Tea Estate (alt 800 ft.) is a pleasantly wooded,1200-acre property. Home to over a thousand families of workers, It nestles snugly in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, and is a tropical paradise with lush vegetation and a wide variety of birds, wild langurs, the solitary leopard and herds of Asian Elephants that criss-cross the estate.  It is also the first Indian tea estate to get world's 'elephant-friendly' tag [read more \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/2QS0Aj8\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Nuxalbari_Elephant_corridor_large.jpg?v=1553114591\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMichelle :\u003c\/em\u003e It was in 2017 that I first came across Nuxalbari after spending some time in the Dooars.  I could not visit on that trip so returned in 2018, combining it with a trip to Darjeeling.  What I discovered here was a remarkable story of a remarkable woman and her fight to continue her families legacy in tea after the untimely death of her mother [who ran the estate for 30 years] in 2011.   As she told us - \u003cem\u003e“since then I have slogged to try and make magic”\u003c\/em\u003e.  At Nuxalbari a beautiful connection exists between tea grower and the land with huge repeat for trees, soil and wildlife.  Larger gardens like this are often dismissed in the more specialist tea market but although few and far between there are still family run larger gardens doing amazing work that we believe should be understood and recognised.  For gardens like Nuxalbari in lesser known areas [this garden is in the Darjeeling district but outside the boundary for the 'Darjeeling Label' ] it is a struggle to be recognised - after all of their efforts much of the tea from gardens like this will simply be blended, their identity lost.  When you taste what this garden offers you will realise what a waste this is.  Nuxalbari single estate organic tea deserves to be enjoyed, asked for and recognised by name - the care put into these beautiful gardens demands it\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Nuxalbari_1_1c8025a3-a8bc-4812-b791-17319b332d9e_large.jpg?v=1553114664\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eWant to know more? :\u003c\/em\u003e Read our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/its-not-about-size-its-about-purpose\"\u003eblog\u003c\/a\u003e or ask Michelle when you come in for tea.  She will happily sit down with you over a cup and chat about our last visit there.  Its a wonderful story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMichelle :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSonia : \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e‘In 2010 I converted 12 acres of our estate to organic after taking a course in Bhutan. Everyone, [....] said it couldn’t be done because of the lush, tropical conditions, which are a veritable breeding ground for pests. The organic sections got very weak with repeated pest attacks. I lost crop. I got terribly disheartened. But then I stuck to good agricultural practices. [.....]I observed the weeds and wondered why we were obsessed with keeping these sections “clean” and weed free. Apart from three or four species, most weeds have shallow roots and were hardly competing with the mature tea, whose roots went down to 3 feet. The weeds actually disrupted the monoculture of tea and encouraged biodiversity\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 73\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e[...] \"My market is wherever there are people who want excellent quality, ethically sourced teas with aroma and flavour. Everyone is madly trying to increase yields [....] but I don’t want to play that game – it’s a dead end. People don’t realize that it’s living soil, and you can’t keep increasing yield without exhausting the land. So I am doing the absolute opposite [...] I am honouring the soil, honouring my tea bushes and trees, honouring the people who work for me, while trying to make good-quality teas\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g (6+ cups)","offer_id":12946823610419,"sku":"second-flush-darjeeling-1","price":3.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":12946823643187,"sku":"second-flush-darjeeling-2","price":10.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":12946823675955,"sku":"second-flush-darjeeling-3","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250g","offer_id":12946823708723,"sku":"second-flush-darjeeling-3","price":49.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_0f001abc-7adb-479c-aa4d-0e646bd60d1a.jpg?v=1610895663"},{"product_id":"tall-dark-handleless-pitcher-xiao-bai-nantou-taiwan-200ml","title":"Tall Dark Handleless Pitcher [Xiao Bai, Nantou Taiwan] 200ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout Xiao Bai\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original design is the work of Xiao Bai, the youngest sibling of the Bai Mu Quan family – a studio established in the 1980s in Nantou County by renowned artistic potter Bai Mu Quan, the father of the family. This young potter, despite his relatively short tenure behind a potter’s wheel, has quickly mastered his craft with works of great sensibility in style and form whilst never compromising on function. The precision in his craftsmanship is simply stunning considering the challenges of working with porcelain as his material of choice. His use of different textures, like the gentle angular scalloped outer-surface motif on many of his most recent pieces give a certain organic feel to his work which is both appropriate to the pure, flowing shapes of his pieces and gives an added texture in the tone of the finish. These distinctive finishes is the result of making good use of the years of experience in creating masterful glazed finishes at the Bai Mu Quan family studio and pushing the threshold of experimentation with glazes, wood-firing, and often both techniques used simultaneously.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13265512366131,"sku":"AT105BR","price":51.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_8804a7a8-dc57-4ffb-8564-44b8771e3bad.jpg?v=1613410906"},{"product_id":"copy-of-hand-thrown-yellow-ash-tea-cup-yangyang-li-jingdezhen","title":"Hand Thrown Yellow Ash Tea Cup 65ml  | Yangyang Li Jingdezhen","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA beautiful yellow ash tea cup from the Yunbai studio\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe first met Yangyang Li in the night market in Jingdezhen - the porcelain capital of China.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrom the moment you hold these and throughout the infusion you can feel and experience the fine finish - a finish that is only possible to produce through very delicate hand throwing skills\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe beautiful glaze used is mixed with plant ash which is very tricky to handle.  So tricky that it has just a 50% success rate after firing!  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSomething that makes these beautiful creations even more precious\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":15635773587507,"sku":"PPG001","price":40.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_f710d898-8d4c-4227-98d7-14a50ddaad29.jpg?v=1612625797"},{"product_id":"oolong-tea-bundle","title":"2025 EXPLORE Oolong Tea [3 oolong tea gift box]","description":"\u003cp\u003eEnjoy a smooth and flavourful journey into the world of fine oolong tea with this selection of high quality oolong teas from around the world personally selected by Rob \u0026amp; Michelle Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe teas are beautifully packaged and include a information card on the teas included in the box\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e25g \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/2023-spring-four-seasons-siji-chun?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=a4992f790\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eFour Seasons\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e25g \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/dong-ding-oolong-tea?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=20a302958\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eDong Ding\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e25g \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/products\/taiwan-style-shui-xian?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=6879aeb10\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eTaiwan Style Shui Xian\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":15863180722227,"sku":"","price":15.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/D3A564FC-1B9A-4E04-9F94-559B47A66C36.heic?v=1700753872"},{"product_id":"second-flush-darjeeling-tea-niroulas-tea-cooperative","title":"2025 Second Flush Darjeeling Tea [Niroulas Tea Cooperative]","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNiroulas Second Flush Darjeeling Tea delivers deeper toastier notes than the first flush offering a warming \u0026amp; nourishing cup with the delicate undertones you expect from Darjeeling. \u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis tea will be delivered in our new compostable packaging \u0026gt;\u0026gt; read more  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/pages\/tea-education\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNiroulas Second Flush\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003eBhawesh Niroula\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNiroulas Cooperative, Chotta Poobong Busty, Near Ghoom, Darjeeling\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e Personal ancestral plantation area of 25 acres and green tea leaves from 180 small tea growers in and around Darjeeling. The total tea plantation area is 350 acres.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003e1st week June\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMixed Clonal-  ( AV2, P312, Takdah 78 and Gomtee ) and China bushes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrade : \u003c\/strong\u003eSFTGFOP1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWithered, rolled, oxidised and fired.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience :  \u003c\/b\u003eThe tea makes a dark amber liquor and delivers a deeper toastier cup - both warming and nourishing.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e July 2018, Michelle Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Western Style]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cstrong style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003e 5g (one \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"products\/tea-caddy-spoons\" title=\"Tea Caddy Spoons\" style=\"font-size: 15px;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 15px;\"\u003e)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 95℃ \/ 185℉ (boil kettle, cool for 20 seconds)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2-4 minutes (or as desired)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1-2\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Niroula's\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMichelle :\u003c\/em\u003e Extract from our our book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e : \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 70\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eBhawesh\u003c\/em\u003e :\u003c\/span\u003eThe story starts with my father, Bikram, a retired government employee who started planting tea in 1999 as an alternative crop because all the other conventional farming was not successful due to the local wildlife destroying it [...] \u003cem\u003e‘My father has always talked about helping the poor small tea growers in Darjeeling, so we started thinking about how to make tea farming in our village a viable way of life again. After a year of research and the con dence of a bank in me, we started Darjeeling’s first farming cooperative in 2015\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cem\u003eand built our own manufacturing unit to support it. We now collect leaves from neighbouring farmers at a very good price (two to three times the average rate), a model that is encouraging new local plantations. People\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cem\u003ewho may previously have given up on farming and left for more lucrative possibilities in the city are starting to see the opportunities that can come from cultivating tea [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/19fc297f-9995-460e-a46b-0a7792a3e04f_large.jpg?v=1553117225\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFurther insight from our time at Niroula's\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMichelle :\u003c\/strong\u003e Bhawesh works with around 180 small tea farmers in and around Darjeeling. Their livelihood runs through their factory. Bhawesh explains\u003cem\u003e 'We conduct training sessions on various farming methods and encourage organic farming. We offer them the best and fair price for their produce. '\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cem\u003e.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAll farming practices are organic. No inorganic fertilizers used. \u003cem\u003e'We only use natural organic methods ( cow dung, urine and herbal plants)'\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eNiroula's Tea Farm had participated in 11th International Famous Tea Appraisal competition in China and was award Gold Medal for their Black Tea in 2016\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/v2Ra6Bu31ug?list=PL0CCLzHXeG9pKpnJfOk1NJ0HKmhhoNatT\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"15g","offer_id":16745127772211,"sku":"tea-darjeeling-2","price":3.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"50g","offer_id":35216073556126,"sku":"","price":6.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"100g","offer_id":35216074440862,"sku":"","price":12.35,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"250g","offer_id":35216077717662,"sku":"","price":29.3,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_a0d03358-4deb-407a-9d97-a8aa01e93aec.jpg?v=1610808306"},{"product_id":"tales-of-the-tea-trade","title":"Tales of the Tea Trade [signed copy]","description":"\u003cp\u003eOur first book \u003cb\u003eTales of the Tea Trade\u003c\/b\u003e looks at the world of tea from a completely new perspective.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking the reader on a fascinating journey directly into the lives of those who plant, pluck and process tea; going beyond the standard story of leaf to cup; this book offers readers a unique first-hand insight into the culture, ceremony, opportunities and threats surrounding an ancient art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCloser to home, Michelle and Rob Comins offer their perspectives on how Eastern tea rituals can find a place in our increasingly busy Western lives. Beyond this, the book explores the key ingredients that separate a `good' from a `great' tea, covers ethical sourcing and shows how readers can translate and recreate tea ceremonies at home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eChapters include The Story of Tea, The Tea Plant, The Main Types of Tea, The International Tea Industry, Tea and Health and Time for Tea.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book stands alone in addressing tea from multiple expert perspectives, from tea farmers to ceramacists. Through sharing the stories and insights others have shared with them Michelle and Rob Comins hope to connect the reader with the world of tea and excite them to think of and buy tea in much the same way they do coffee and fine wine, making loose leaf tea a simple, everyday pleasure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePictured below with Mrs Zhou in Yunnan\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Book_f1452167-b169-490f-96ef-694efd35436a_grande.jpg?v=1561735965\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":17805348470835,"sku":"CGYBW1","price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/Book_fdd79ba5-7d56-4f72-a1a2-f3765986c0ea.jpg?v=1561736119"},{"product_id":"tea-scoop-japan","title":"Japanese Cherry Wood Tea Scoop [Japan] [7.8cm x 3cm]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA delicate tea scoop perfect for Japanese Green tea but also suitable for other types.  Can be kept in the tea packet or tea tin.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions 7.8cm x 3cm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31010690334857,"sku":"cherry","price":10.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_dff93737-6db2-4d13-ac62-8ca4ceebb941.jpg?v=1612712373"},{"product_id":"tea-scoop-japan-6cm-x-4cm","title":"Tea Scoop [Japan] [6cm x 4cm]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA sturdy wooden tea scoop perfect for all types of tea  Can be kept in the tea packet or tea tin.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions 6cm x 4cm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31010694889609,"sku":"KY2","price":4.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_b23aace5-3a2a-4754-a00b-54073340fe51.jpg?v=1612712314"},{"product_id":"yixing-pottery-sipping-cup-light-brown","title":"Yixing Pottery Sipping Cup 40ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e40ml sipping cup\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31213945290889,"sku":"SC1","price":6.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_2dec2281-d617-422a-87d2-0412b7a8174f.jpg?v=1612626244"},{"product_id":"2014-shu-puer-8g-ball-pressed-2017-a-bai-la-co-operative-jingmai-mountain","title":"2015 Shu Puer 8g Ball [pressed 2017] : A Bai La co-operative Jingmai mountain","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the A Bai La co-operative on Jingmai mountain this 2015 Shu Puer [pressed 2017] delivers a beautifully rich and earthy cup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth..\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e2014 Shu Puer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003eMr NanKang\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin :\u003c\/b\u003e A Bai La Co-operative, MangJing Village, Mount Jingmai, Puer County, Yunnan Province, China \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan\u003e180 families \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eApril\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAncient Tree, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003emedium sized leaves \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eRead more about the cooperative \u0026amp; the tea produced here on our blog :\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u0026gt;\u0026gt; https:\/\/bit.ly\/2rjxAJf\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u0026gt;\u0026gt; https:\/\/bit.ly\/2PtkBMN\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003eA\u003c\/span\u003e rich, smooth cup which brings centre \u0026amp; balance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e June 2019, Michelle Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Gaiwan]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eAmount of tea per bowl (200 ml): \u003c\/b\u003e2.5 g (1 tsp)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/b\u003e 100\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℃\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \/ 212\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℉\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time: \u003c\/b\u003e1st infusion 30 seconds then 15 seconds thereafter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/b\u003e 8\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/b\u003e No sugar, no milk\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : A Bai La Co-Operative\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #999999;\"\u003ePuer \u003cem\u003efor preservation\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMichelle first visited Mr NanKang \u0026amp; the A Bai La Cooperative in 2016 and below you can read an extract from that first visit.  Below this extract you can also access two of our most recent blogs from travels back to see Mr Nankang in 2019 - when you have read these I hope you will feel inspired, like us, to drink and enjoy this most special of tea and see the balance and harmony it can bring.  Simply magic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 35\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/collections\/our-book\"\u003eExtract from tales of the tea trade : \u003c\/a\u003e '\u003cem\u003eFlying into Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, it took a gruelling 9 hours to reach Jinghong in the far south. This is a region well known for its rich and diverse styles of tea, and it was the puer tea, a unique style that originated in the region, and the black teas, in particular Dian Hong, that I had come to see [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eYunnan province is a land very different from the modern cultivation and terraced tea elds you see in other parts of the world. Here, ancient tea trees, some hundreds of years old, are cultivated in natural forests rich with biodiversity...The experience was to be a magical one, and it was Mr Nankang who inspired us to write the book [...]  In about 180 AD, the Blang ethnic minority group migrated through the area and discovered tea. Limited available land meant that they started to cultivate tea trees in the forest [..] The area is now the largest and best-preserved cultivated ancient tree plantation in the world [..] the \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eprime conditions here only exist because of the understanding gained by the farmers through studying nature over time[...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Ancient_tree_4_grande.jpg?v=1560342908\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe tea here is high quality and highly valued, requiring no pesticides or fertilizers However, Mr Nankang explained how the local people, with limited processing and marketing skills, lose out in the value chain[....]many locals have now formed a cooperative in Mangjing with Mr Nankang as their executive [...] By working together to process and market their own teas they can realize more of the profits and gain support on matters such as forest protection and tea forest conservation, which they work on with the support of scientists [...] As we tasted our way through their teas, it felt as though we were being invited, through the tea cup, to join a wonderful club, a club more connected with the earth and the environment than anywhere else I have ever visited [....] end of extract \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/collections\/our-book\"\u003efrom tales of the tea trade :\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 36\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Mr_Nan_5ce8cf26-d98d-4bda-9b4c-9466cb9e78b3_grande.jpg?v=1560339952\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two most recent blogs from Michelle's return trip to Mr Nankang and the magnificent Jingmai mountain can be found here \u0026gt;\u0026gt; \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/2MFdgvI\"\u003eBlog 1 : Into the Ancient Tea Forest \u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/china-day-4\"\u003eBlog 2 : Mr Nan and the ancient tea trees of the Bulang\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Tea_Time_4_grande.jpg?v=1560368416\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"8g","offer_id":31322616004745,"sku":"A Bai La 30g","price":5.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_0c42dcb6-7b8c-4ba8-90eb-95591c84a8b0.jpg?v=1620235390"},{"product_id":"2018-sheng-puer-8g-ball-a-bai-la-co-operative-jingmai-mountain","title":"2018 Sheng Puer 8g ball : A Bai La co-operative Jingmai mountain","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the A Bai La co-operative on Jingmai mountain this 2018 Sheng Puer delivers a light, smooth \u0026amp; zingy cup which brings centre \u0026amp; balance \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth..\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e2018 Sheng Puer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003eMr NanKang\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin :\u003c\/b\u003e A Bai La Co-operative, MangJing Village, Mount Jingmai, Puer County, Yunnan Province, China \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan\u003e180 families \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eApril\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAncient Tree, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003emedium sized leaves \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e2-3 leaves \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcessing : \u003c\/b\u003eP\u003c\/span\u003eick the fresh leaf, wait 3 hours, put it in wok to kill the green, roll for 15-20 mins and then sun dry for 1 -2 days.  \u003cem\u003e In the opinion of the team at \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eA Bai La\u003c\/em\u003e the \u003c\/span\u003etea should sit and balance after processing - ideally for 5 months - before compression\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003eA\u003c\/span\u003e light, smooth \u0026amp; zingy cup which brings centre \u0026amp; balance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e June 2019, Michelle Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare tea [Gaiwan]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eAmount of tea per bowl (200 ml): \u003c\/b\u003e2.5 g (1 tsp)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/b\u003e 100\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℃\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \/ 212\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℉\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time: \u003c\/b\u003e1st infusion 30 seconds then 15 seconds thereafter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/b\u003e 8\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/b\u003e No sugar, no milk\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : A Bai La Co-Operative\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #999999;\"\u003ePuer \u003cem\u003efor preservation\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMichelle first visited Mr NanKang \u0026amp; the A Bai La Cooperative in 2016 and below you can read an extract from that first visit.  Below this extract you can also access two of our most recent blogs from travels back to see Mr Nankang in 2019 - when you have read these I hope you will feel inspired, like us, to drink and enjoy this most special of tea and see the balance and harmony it can bring.  Simply magic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 35\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/collections\/our-book\"\u003eExtract from tales of the tea trade : \u003c\/a\u003e '\u003cem\u003eFlying into Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, it took a gruelling 9 hours to reach Jinghong in the far south. This is a region well known for its rich and diverse styles of tea, and it was the puer tea, a unique style that originated in the region, and the black teas, in particular Dian Hong, that I had come to see [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eYunnan province is a land very different from the modern cultivation and terraced tea elds you see in other parts of the world. Here, ancient tea trees, some hundreds of years old, are cultivated in natural forests rich with biodiversity...The experience was to be a magical one, and it was Mr Nankang who inspired us to write the book [...]  In about 180 AD, the Blang ethnic minority group migrated through the area and discovered tea. Limited available land meant that they started to cultivate tea trees in the forest [..] The area is now the largest and best-preserved cultivated ancient tree plantation in the world [..] the \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eprime conditions here only exist because of the understanding gained by the farmers through studying nature over time[...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Ancient_tree_4_grande.jpg?v=1560342908\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe tea here is high quality and highly valued, requiring no pesticides or fertilizers However, Mr Nankang explained how the local people, with limited processing and marketing skills, lose out in the value chain[....]many locals have now formed a cooperative in Mangjing with Mr Nankang as their executive [...] By working together to process and market their own teas they can realize more of the profits and gain support on matters such as forest protection and tea forest conservation, which they work on with the support of scientists [...] As we tasted our way through their teas, it felt as though we were being invited, through the tea cup, to join a wonderful club, a club more connected with the earth and the environment than anywhere else I have ever visited [....] end of extract \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/collections\/our-book\"\u003efrom tales of the tea trade :\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 36\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Mr_Nan_5ce8cf26-d98d-4bda-9b4c-9466cb9e78b3_grande.jpg?v=1560339952\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two most recent blogs from Michelle's return trip to Mr Nankang and the magnificent Jingmai mountain can be found here \u0026gt;\u0026gt; \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/2MFdgvI\"\u003eBlog 1 : Into the Ancient Tea Forest \u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/china-day-4\"\u003eBlog 2 : Mr Nan and the ancient tea trees of the Bulang\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Tea_Time_4_grande.jpg?v=1560368416\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"8g","offer_id":31322712572041,"sku":"A Bai La 30g","price":4.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_5b3383f4-c309-4a89-8c4e-35101ccb0506.jpg?v=1620235281"},{"product_id":"soo-soo-chois-nokcha-ujeon","title":"Soo Soo Choi's South Korean Ryohongcha (Black Tea)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA vibrant, smooth and fruity black tea\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more Depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker :  \u003c\/b\u003eSoo Soo Choi, Dachae Tea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin \/ Garden name and location : \u003c\/b\u003eNoding-myeon, Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-Do, South Korea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eSize of garden :\u003c\/b\u003e  Total size 9 hectares with 2.9 hectares dedicated to tea fields\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time :  \u003c\/b\u003eEarly to mid May\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eYabukita seeds \u0026amp; native species mixed by natural crossing, wild species\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrade : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIn the production level of \"Ujeon\" and \"Sejak\", the tea is sorted the according to the exact specification of the grade.  This black tea is made from the larger or 'big' leaves that drop out during this process. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard :  \u003c\/b\u003eHand picked\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA vibrant, smooth and fruity black tea\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e Rob Comins : April 2019\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to make Soo Soo Choi's Hongcha\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per serving (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e 2\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eg (half \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca title=\"Tea Caddy Spoon\" href=\"products\/tea-caddy-spoons\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \/ 1 teaspoon)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water: \u003c\/strong\u003e100℃ \/ 205℉\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 - 2.5 minutes as desired\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3-4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/strong\u003e No milk, no sugar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : Dachae Tea\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eExtract from our book \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Tales-Tea-Trade-sourcing-favourite\/dp\/1911595229\"\u003eTales of the tea trade\u003c\/a\u003e :\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eSoosoo Choi: ‘I run a tea farm called Dachae in Boseong. Our farm is located at an altitude of 230 metres and is 9 hectares in total, with 2.9 hectares dedicated to tea fields. Three people work regularly on the farm, all of whom are family members, and we use extra people only temporarily when we make tea or manage the farm. [...] \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eWe started our brand in 2010, focusing on the values of colour, diversity, harmony, and the beauty of Mother Nature. The name Dachae literally means “various colours”, but also can be interpreted as “colour of tea” or “house of tea”. We gave our name a lot of thought as we wanted it to convey something to the tea drinker before they experience the tea.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Soo_Soo_grande.jpg?v=1561666820\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e [...]  \u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e‘I first started out in tea farming because of an interest in plants, but later I fell in love with the dramatic changes of tea leaves that were in uenced by human hands\u003c\/em\u003e [...] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Tea_Garden_2_a08e07f0-1c1d-432b-abe6-726a985852db_grande.jpg?v=1561723858\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e‘Since tea farming is based on plant materials, the pattern of work is repeated once a year rather than once a day. Because our tea farm is small, the whole process of delivering a cup of tea to consumers, from soil, cultivation, processing and packaging to marketing and sales, is in our hands, and these activities follow a pattern and rhythm throughout the year.’\u003c\/em\u003e [...]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMichelle : \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAs we leave, I ask Soosoo what she believes makes the difference between good and great Korean tea. Her reply has really stuck with me because it is completely in line with my thoughts and feelings on tea [...] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Soo_soo_3_grande.jpg?v=1561724223\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e[...] ‘\u003cem\u003eNearly everything is important in producing a great tea. Choosing an appropriate cultivar, sensitivity in the handling of the tea and having a fine control of the details of a tea-processing process. All of these elements must be carefully considered, so you can start to see how much hard work sits behind making a great tea. Despite these endless e orts we understand that there has to be an exception. Each of us all have our own private history, a weight of life, context and drama. So when we make tea we already know in our hearts that our personal best may not suit others\u003c\/em\u003e [...] \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eSo I do not impose my personal taste on others [...] It is important to let people enjoy tea comfortably instead of making them “learn” the way to drink tea. All of this will leave good memories about tea and help tea drinkers to choose great tea by constant effort, and to see and appreciate how tea changes over time.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"10g","offer_id":32500593950857,"sku":"Nokcha-30g","price":8.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"30g","offer_id":32500593983625,"sku":"Nokcha-60g","price":17.1,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_28a98332-3c35-43f3-a18f-dbc0282f7397.jpg?v=1610132812"},{"product_id":"taiwan-style-shui-xian","title":"Taiwan Style Shui Xian : Sijichun Oolong Tea","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\":ux\" class=\"ii gt\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\":uw\" class=\"a3s aXjCH\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e Simply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA complex 'Taiwan Style Shui Xian' oolong with a r\u003c\/span\u003eich, honeyed flavour. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHaving spent many years in China tea maker YuWen has used her knowledge, experience and expertise to make this tea using the local four seasons Si Ji Chun cultivar which is medium baked.   This tea is named in order to highlight the similar characteristics to the Chinese Shui Xian from Wuyi.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  It is not intended as a 'copy' more a unique tea in its own right with recognisable characteristics.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProcessing \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMr Chen.  Processing \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eis similar to the the famous Wuyi oolongs, although it is often baked to a higher level. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eand \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaked\u003c\/strong\u003e by Yu Wen : \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFor this\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"il\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eShui\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"il\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eXian\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethis baking is key, as this is actually a Taiwanese oolong made using the Sijichun cultivar \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eLeaf Origin : \u003c\/b\u003eMr Chen : 1\/5 Hectare : \u003c\/span\u003eMing Jian Township , Nantou,  300-400metres above sea level  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEnd of April\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote on harvest time \u0026amp; baking :\u003c\/strong\u003e The fresh Spring tea from this garden is used for Bao Zhong.  For this tea it is baked after \u003ci\u003e\u003cspan color=\"#ff2600\"\u003emellowing [as for Dong Ding]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSijichun \u003cem\u003eInterested to learn more about Taiwanese tea style, cultivar \u0026amp; terroir? click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/3fjnL0E\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e to read our blog on the topic\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003eStyle  : \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003eStrip, unrolled\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003eBaking : \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003eL\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003eevel 6-7\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlucking standard \u003c\/b\u003eMachine plucked\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOxidation Level : \u003c\/b\u003e10-15%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience \u003c\/b\u003eA complex oolong with a r\u003c\/span\u003eich, honeyed flavour\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_4270733129757237555gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis tea is the product of the\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/spotlight-on-sourcing-taiwan\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eh\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003eighly networked tea system in Taiwan : in this case the tea is grown and initially processed by one family before being finished by another.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTo learn more about our partnerships in Taiwan and who we work with to bring you these great teas please do \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/spotlight-on-sourcing-taiwan\"\u003ehead over to our blog \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026gt; what you read here is just part of our commitment to greater transparency in tea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMore information\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"il\"\u003eShui\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"il\"\u003eXian\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e oolong originates from the Wuyi Mountains in China's Fujian Province, although it is now grown elsewhere in China and Taiwan. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare Taiwan Style Shui Xian [Gong Fu Style]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmount of tea per cup (200 ml):\u003c\/strong\u003e 5-7g (one \u003ca href=\"products\/tea-caddy-spoons\" title=\"Tea Caddy Spoons\"\u003etea caddy spoon\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature of water:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90℃ \/ 194℉\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time:\u003c\/strong\u003e 30 seconds initially, then longer according to taste\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Multiple\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"50g (20+ cups)","offer_id":33184240402569,"sku":"Shui Xian 50g","price":9.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"100g (40+ cups)","offer_id":33184240468105,"sku":"Shui Xian 100g","price":17.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"250g","offer_id":33184240500873,"sku":"Shui Xian 250g","price":42.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_88b3c32d-8740-450e-b818-9b6c667a9e9c.jpg?v=1610036448"},{"product_id":"2018-organic-imperial-shu-puer-a-bai-la-co-operative-jingmai-mountain","title":"2020 Ancient Tree Imperial Grade Shu Puer : A Bai La co-operative Jingmai mountain","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA soft earthy and mellow premium  Imperial Grade Shu Puer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 1\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSimply put...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the A Bai La co-operative on Jingmai mountain this 2018 organic 2018 Organic  Imperial Grade Shu Puer delivers a beautifully rich and earthy cup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIn more depth..\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Name : \u003c\/b\u003e2020 Organic  Imperial Grade Shu Puer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eTea Maker : \u003c\/b\u003eMr NanKang\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin :\u003c\/b\u003e A Bai La Co-operative, MangJing Village, Mount Jingmai, Puer County, Yunnan Province, China \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_1206542542073265616gmail-s1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize :\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan\u003e180 families \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHarvest Time : \u003c\/b\u003eApril\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eCultivar : \u003c\/b\u003eAncient Tree\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eRead more about the cooperative \u0026amp; the tea produced here on our blog :\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u0026gt;\u0026gt; https:\/\/bit.ly\/2rjxAJf\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u0026gt;\u0026gt; https:\/\/bit.ly\/2PtkBMN\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience : \u003c\/b\u003eA\u003c\/span\u003e superior rich, smooth cup with great depth\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast visited by Comins :\u003c\/strong\u003e June 2019, Michelle Comins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to prepare  Imperial Grade Shu Puer [Gaiwan]...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eAmount of tea per bowl (200 ml): \u003c\/b\u003e2.5 g (1 tsp)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/b\u003e 100\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℃\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \/ 212\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e℉\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eInfusion \/ brewing time: \u003c\/b\u003e1st infusion 30 seconds then 15 seconds thereafter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eNumber of infusions:\u003c\/b\u003e 8\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow to enjoy:\u003c\/b\u003e No sugar, no milk\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTales of the Tea Trade : A Bai La Co-Operative\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #999999;\"\u003ePuer\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003efor preservation\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMichelle first visited Mr NanKang \u0026amp; the A Bai La Cooperative in 2016 and below you can read an extract from that first visit.  Below this extract you can also access two of our most recent blogs from travels back to see Mr Nankang in 2019 - when you have read these I hope you will feel inspired, like us, to drink and enjoy this most special of tea and see the balance and harmony it can bring.  Simply magic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 35\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/collections\/our-book\"\u003eExtract from tales of the tea trade :\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e '\u003cem\u003eFlying into Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, it took a gruelling 9 hours to reach Jinghong in the far south. This is a region well known for its rich and diverse styles of tea, and it was the puer tea, a unique style that originated in the region, and the black teas, in particular Dian Hong, that I had come to see [...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eYunnan province is a land very different from the modern cultivation and terraced tea elds you see in other parts of the world. Here, ancient tea trees, some hundreds of years old, are cultivated in natural forests rich with biodiversity...The experience was to be a magical one, and it was Mr Nankang who inspired us to write the book [...]  In about 180 AD, the Blang ethnic minority group migrated through the area and discovered tea. Limited available land meant that they started to cultivate tea trees in the forest [..] The area is now the largest and best-preserved cultivated ancient tree plantation in the world [..] the \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eprime conditions here only exist because of the understanding gained by the farmers through studying nature over time[...]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Ancient_tree_4_grande.jpg?v=1560342908\"\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe tea here is high quality and highly valued, requiring no pesticides or fertilizers However, Mr Nankang explained how the local people, with limited processing and marketing skills, lose out in the value chain[....]many locals have now formed a cooperative in Mangjing with Mr Nankang as their executive [...] By working together to process and market their own teas they can realize more of the profits and gain support on matters such as forest protection and tea forest conservation, which they work on with the support of scientists [...] As we tasted our way through their teas, it felt as though we were being invited, through the tea cup, to join a wonderful club, a club more connected with the earth and the environment than anywhere else I have ever visited [....] end of extract \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/collections\/our-book\"\u003efrom tales of the tea trade :\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 36\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Mr_Nan_5ce8cf26-d98d-4bda-9b4c-9466cb9e78b3_grande.jpg?v=1560339952\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two most recent blogs from Michelle's return trip to Mr Nankang and the magnificent Jingmai mountain can be found here \u0026gt;\u0026gt;\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/2MFdgvI\"\u003eBlog 1 : Into the Ancient Tea Forest \u003c\/a\u003e and\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/blogs\/news\/china-day-4\"\u003eBlog 2 : Mr Nan and the ancient tea trees of the Bulang\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/files\/Tea_Time_4_grande.jpg?v=1560368416\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 36\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 1\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Comins Tea","offers":[{"title":"60g","offer_id":33306076414089,"sku":"A Bai La 30g","price":27.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"30g","offer_id":33306408419465,"sku":"","price":14.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/products\/image_c17c7052-3243-4cd5-b64e-cefa2b112b4c.jpg?v=1620238147"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1174\/3374\/collections\/image_819024c1-1eaa-47f6-ba4a-dc274bd574f6.jpg?v=1611753447","url":"https:\/\/cominstea.com\/collections\/single-estate-tea.oembed?page=17","provider":"Comins Tea","version":"1.0","type":"link"}