Tea tasting (cupping)

Tea tasting, or cupping, is a process where enthusiasts evaluate tea’s aroma, flavor, and appearance. It involves smelling the dry leaves, then steeping them briefly in hot water, and smelling again to note aroma changes. Next, the brewed tea is tasted using a spoon to slurp, which helps aerate the liquid and fully experience its flavors. Tasting notes like sweetness, bitterness, body, and aftertaste are assessed. This method provides a structured way to compare different teas, understand their unique qualities, and appreciate the complexity of flavors in each variety.