Duchess Fine Teas – Tea Tasting Guide

Tea tasting is an art that engages all your senses—sight, smell, taste, and touch. Use this guide to explore the delicate flavors, aromas, and textures of your tea, just like a tea sommelier.

1. The Five Steps of Tea Tasting

Step 1: Observe the Dry Leaves 👀

Before brewing, examine the tea leaves. Look for:

Shape & Size: Whole leaves, rolled pearls, twisted, or broken pieces.

Color: Green, golden, dark brown, or silver tips (indicates quality and oxidation).

Aroma: Dry leaves often have subtle floral, nutty, or earthy scents.

Step 2: Inhale the Aroma 👃

After brewing, bring the cup close and take a deep breath.

Floral & Fruity: Jasmine, rose, peach, citrus.

Woody & Earthy: Moss, cedar, wet leaves.

Nutty & Creamy: Chestnut, almond, buttery notes.

Spicy & Malty: Cinnamon, black pepper, malt.

Step 3: Sip & Taste ☕

Take a small sip and let the tea coat your tongue.

Body: Light (delicate), medium (smooth), or full-bodied (bold).

Texture: Silky, creamy, dry, brisk, or astringent.

Sweetness or Bitterness: Some teas have natural sweetness, while others may be brisk or slightly bitter (like strong black teas).

Step 4: Identify the Aftertaste 🍃

Does the flavor linger on your tongue, or does it fade quickly?

Some teas, like oolongs and pu-erh, have a long-lasting, evolving aftertaste.

Green and white teas often leave a fresh, slightly sweet finish.

Step 5: Experiment & Compare

Try tasting the same tea at different temperatures or with and without milk, honey, or lemon.

Compare different varieties—like a Japanese Sencha vs. a Chinese Longjing green tea—to discover your preferences.

2. Tea Tasting Notes Chart

3. Tips for a Perfect Tea Tasting

• Use filtered water for the best flavor.
• Brew at the right temperature (green & white teas need lower heat; black & oolong teas require hotter water).
• Sip slowly and savor the flavors.
• Keep a tea journal to track your favorites and tasting notes.

Whether you’re discovering a new blend or refining your palate, let Duchess Fine Teas be your guide to the art of tea – redefined.