James sent me this "Joy of Tea" porcelain set for review. He framed it as great for travel or office use, and so I decided to field test it. I've been using it in the office for a few weeks now. I like it's compact 3-part setup. The bottom cup is thin and nice for drinking, while the inner brewing vessel is thick and sturdy. The lid fits both - a plus to keep my tea warm once I'm done brewing. Lid could also be used as a coaster.
With built-in teeth in the brewing vessel, loose leaf is strained as I pour. (Some leaf will escape and I wouldn't use this with a fine herbal like rooibos - but that's not what it's designed for). It's like a hybrid between a gaiwan and a tasting set.
A nice little side connection is that the set is by Taiwanese porcelain company Eilong. I have a few other pieces from this company, and it brings me happy memories of shopping the Yingge District of Taiwan.
My summary of this brewing set: I like the compactness and how it lets me brew loose leaf tea in conditions that may be less-than-ideal for that style. I like that the lid fits both vessels. I like the color options. It's not quite as smooth as pouring a traditional gaiwan (at least not for me), but I'm happy with the product's convenience and look. You can find the product here.
Raising a cup to the small world of tea connections!
Seems like a cool product. And pretty desk!
ReplyDelete@Teafan - Thank you! It's hard to make a cubicle nice, but flowers and tea go a long way!
ReplyDeleteHow nice to get to test run this set. It does look perfect for the office.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like a useful tea set!
ReplyDeleteIt looks like a sleek and stylish set for the office!
ReplyDeleteWhat an intriguing set! I'd never heard of this, but after reading your review, I can see the value of it. Further proof (as if I needed any) that there is always more to learn in the world of tea!
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