Diane Eddy

Whether you call it tea, thé, or cha, tea is so much more than just a beverage. For many, its mystique is living art, steeped in ceremony and thoughtfulness — a reflection of the things and people we love. Although it is quite basic, tea satisfies not just our thirst but also our spirit, helping us feel a bit more civilized and sophisticated.

Tea seems like such a simple infusion — a few dried leaves soaked in hot water that produces a dark reddish brown or green liquid. However, despite its unimpressive appearance, tea is the drink of choice for billions of people — the second most consumed beverage besides water. Why is it so popular? Why is it in such demand today? What does tea mean to you? How can you tell the difference between excellent, mediocre and bad tea—and why should you care?

If the tea leaves could answer these questions, what would they say? Perhaps they would tell you of a heritage that is several thousands of years old. Perhaps they would talk of the rituals, enchantment and the darker side of tea. Or just maybe, they would tell you that the study of tea can be fun, easy and lead to life-long friendships. During this season’s tea-tasting classes, you will find those little dried leaves will whisper all of their secrets in your ear — just as they talk to the majority of humanity.

November 15 will be the first of a series of six monthly tea tasting classes led by Global Tea Mart’s Certified Tea Professional, Diane Eddy. Come and join us on our journey over the ancient tea trail on November 15, December 20 and January 17, February 21, March 21 and April 18, 2017. Tantalize your nostrils and intrigue your taste buds with many different exceptional teas. Come and experience the stunning single estate teas, Chinese Dragonwell, Indian Assams and Darjeelings, rare Taiwanese Milk Oolong tea, and so many others. Each of these extraordinary teas takes just minutes to steep, but a lifetime to forget.

At the first class we will explore the history and origins of Chinese green teas. So much is in the news today regarding green teas — come and find out what all the hoopla is about. You will discover that creating great-tasting tea is quite easy. There are only a few steps; looking at the dry leaves, steeping the tea correctly, examining the wet leaf, smelling the aroma of the infused tea, and finally, tasting some of the most exquisite teas on the planet.

Students, please bring a teacup and saucer along with your sense of humor and adventure. Bring your friends and come join us November 15 at 10:00 a.m. in the Sun Lakes Country Club’s Navajo Room. The cost of the class is $5 per person and reservations are necessary.

Please call Diane at 480-219-6211 or email her at [email protected] for more information and to make your reservation.