An Oolong Tea Tasting for my Senpai

Stephanie sharing tea info

One of the things that has been a surprise as I've begun to study chanoyou - and a good surprise - is the extent to which I would become part of a community.  I had no idea how much my fellow students would contribute to my learning.  I'm the "youngest" student these days, in terms of years in study.  My Senpai, the students senior to me, play an active role in my learning.  I get the amazing gift of observing their lessons.  They provide instruction to me in how to behave overall and what to do in the prep area.  They are patient with me when I make mistakes and they encourage me to keep going.  They share stories of their own ah-ha moments.  They generously share all of this and so much more.  As a thank you, I hosted an oolong tea tasting yesterday.  I thought my Senpai might enjoy an afternoon sampling teas from another part of Asia.

David preparing to brew

My partner in this endeavor was David, of PDX TEA.  We met at his shop, a wonderful space full of windows and tea wares.  We shared the presentation of the teas and I thought we made a great team!  It's a real joy to work fluidly with another person. 

Unrolled Buddha Hand tea leaf - look at that giant!

We sampled 5 teas:

- Baozhong, lightly oxidized (from Floating Leaves)

- Buddha Hand, lightly oxidized and lightly roasted (from Floating Leaves)

- Bai Hao, aka Oriental Beauty, highly oxidized (from Imperial Tea Court)

- Tie Guan Yin, light oxidation and deep roast  (from PDX TEA)

- Aged Miaoli, part oxidation, medium roast, aged 15-20 years (from PDX TEA)

I love having personal relationships with my tea vendors!  Shiuwen of Floating Leaves helped me select which teas to feature in this event.  Roy of Imperial Tea Court provided detailed information on the Bai Hao, including pronunciation guidance for the Hsinchu Province  ;-).  David of PDX TEA not only offered the use of his space, but shared his wisdom and brewing skills. 

A busy tea brewing table!

Tea is so amazing.  There's a lifetime of study ahead!

Thanks to David for snapping the photos of me!