We are excited to announce that the Tea Tasting Workshops have returned!
Join us on Saturday “tea” evenings to learn about and experience the true flavors of specialty origin teas in our educational, interactive & fun tea tasting workshops!
Perfect for the novice or connoisseur alike, our series of workshops provides a guided exploration through the vast and complex world of specialty loose leaf origin teas and herbal tisanes. During each workshop, we will journey to tea-producing countries around the world to experience unique teas and cultural traditions, learn how to truly taste tea, and unlock the secrets of proper preparation methods for each tea type. A flight of five teas or four pairings will be tasted and discussed in each workshop.
Introduction to Tea Appreciation – April 23rd
Tea is more complex than wine and in this workshop we delve into the techniques and terminology used to unlock its wide-ranging characteristics. Overview of tea types, typical characteristics, factors that affect quality and characteristics, analyzing the leaf and the liquor. This workshop provides a solid foundation for the rest of the workshops in the series.
Black Teas – April 30th
80% of all tea produced around the world is black tea, but few realize the range of aromas and flavors that can be found within this type of tea. Join us to explore rich and flavorful black teas that have been selected from our catalog of over 65 origin black teas that have been sourced from over 15 countries.
Green Teas – May 7th
Don’t think you like green tea? We hear this A LOT! Join us to explore teas that have been selected from our catalog of over 40 origin green teas and unlock the mysteries of selecting and properly preparing them for maximum enjoyment.
Wulong Teas – May 21st
Discover the most complex of all the teas! Join us to explore amazing wulongs, from traditional to rare, that have been selected from our catalog of over 40 origin wulongs sourced around the world.
White & Yellow Teas – June 4th
Two misunderstood and often misrepresented types of tea. Join us to explore and dispel the myths around some of the most delicate teas. Teas will be selected from our catalog of almost 20 origin white teas sourced around the world and the rarest of them all – yellow tea.
Pu-er & Other Dark Teas – July 16th
Another complex category of tea, dark teas are rare and relatively unknown here in the US. Join us to explore the unique and complex aged Pu-ers of Yunnan Province, China, and teas from other dark tea-producing regions and countries.
Tea & Chocolate Pairing – July 30th
Join us to indulge in four pairings of our specialty origin teas with small-batch, hand-crafted, bean-to-bar artisan chocolates from Fruition Chocolate. This international award-winning chocolatier is among the top ten in the US.
Tea & Cheese Pairing – August 13th
Savor four pairings of our specialty origin teas with small-batch, hand-crafted, award-winning artisanal cheeses. Join us for a unique and tasty experience!
Tea & Terroir – August 20th
We often talk in the shop about how terroir – soil, elevation, climate and weather, processing of the leaves, etc. – influences the aromatic and taste characteristics expressed in origin teas (just like it does in wine!) This workshop is structured differently than our other ones in that we explore 2-3 comparisons of tea, instead of analyzing one tea at a time. This comparative discovery allows a deeper dive into understanding the effects of terroir on tea and in this one we will be exploring elevation’s influence on the leaf. We hope you’ll join us for this awesomely unique tasting!
Famous Teas of China – September 17th
The history of tea in China spans close to 5,000 years! And throughout this history is woven many tea legends and some highly esteemed teas. Travel back in time with us as we explore several of these teas and what makes them so highly regarded.
Teas of Japan – October 1st
Japan produces a complex array of teas that is hard to find elsewhere. Join us to explore a variety of Japanese teas and learn about what makes them so unique.
Rare, Hand-Crafted, Small Batch Teas – October 15th
Journey with us to some tea-producing regions that are not as well-known as others. We will be exploring some truly rare, artisanal teas that are hand-crafted in small batches using traditional methods.
Preparation Techniques – October 29th
“A simple cup of tea is far from a simple matter.” – Mary Lou Heiss
Preparing a cup of tea or tisane combines art and science, so join us to expand your toolbox of preparation techniques and learn how to extract the best tastes and aromas from your leaves. We’ll be covering various preparation methods and lots of tips that you can employ at home to make consistently flavorful cups of tea no matter the style of the leaf.
Tisanes for Winter Wellness – November 12th
As the holiday and winter seasons approach, stress and environment take a toll on our immune systems and overall health and wellness. Get a jump start on tackling the challenges of the season head-on and join us to learn about some key herbs that may help alleviate stress, provide immune support, and keep you at optimal health and performance.
Workshops take place at Infuse Tea Bar at 106 Main St., West Sayville. Each workshop begins promptly at 7:00PM & will last for approximately 90 minutes – longer if you would like to stay for the highly recommended second infusions. More tea? Yes please!
Cost is $30 per person. Pre-paid registration is required & space is limited, so please sign up early! Attending each workshop is not required – just sign up for the ones that interest you the most. No refunds after registration, unless your spot can be filled. Please note that the shop is small, so these workshops may not be for you if you will not feel comfortable in a cozy, intimate space.
To register or if you have any questions, please e-mail kristine@infuseteabarny.com or stop by the shop!