Where does tea come from?
In China, tea began as one of the herbs of traditional Chinese medicine and is mentioned as such in the Huang Di Nei Jing (The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine). It was differentiated from the rest of the Chinese pharmacopeia as the focal point of social and ritual pastime by a figure in Chinese history named Lu Yu. Since the time of Lu Yu, tea appreciation has blossomed into a rich and varied cultural element throughout the world. This culture in China is at least as nuanced as wine culture presents in the West and has continued to grow in popularity in the United States since being re-introduced by West Coast tea merchants in the late 20th century.
For an introduction to the depths of tea and tea appreciation, join us at The Red Pavilion and experience the beauty and power of traditional Chinese tea culture. Montsho Thoth (tea educator and sourcer) of West China Tea will serve a flight of farm-direct, artisan Chinese teas in the Gong Fu Cha style and explore the relationships between tea culture, the “types” of tea, Chinese medicine, and the concept of Qi, which unites them.
Each tasting session is limited to a group of 6 to ensure an intimate and educational experience.
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