For All The Tea In China

Ancient China, the birthplace of Tea and its history going back almost 5,000 years.

According to legends, in 2732 BC mythical Emperor Shennong discovered tea when leaves from a wild tree blew into his pot of boiling water. These myths are amusing as it is mostly the Emperor that find amazing things.

In addition to using tea for its medicinal and healing properties, its popularity grew rapidly through the 4th and 8th century and became valued as a pleasurable refreshment.

Tea plantations spread throughout China and Tea became a status symbol with its presentation in elegant pots and cups.

Tea Merchants appeared, controlling the prices which only made it available to the upper class.

The Chinese Empire controlled the preparation and cultivation of the crop along with specifications that only young virgins could handle the leaves. They were placed on a diet, avoiding strong spices and garlic, so not to contaminate the delicate flavour of the leaves, as the leaves were picked with their lips. Later it became a bit absurd when a C-cup bra size became a requirement

Before the 17th century, the tea in China was only Green tea.

Tall ships with foreign merchants started to appear on the horizon more frequently with an interest in Tea.

A fermentation process developed, preserving the leaves with its result of Black Tea. The dried Black Tea kept the aroma longer and was better equipped for long sea journeys mostly to Europe.