Travel and meetings over tea

We're already in the last stretch of our Vietnam / Taiwan tour. What a great opportunity to share so much time with these tea producers and their families. Being 'in the loop' for almost four years now, I was already well aware this approach of the four tasters of Camellia Sinensis. I have now experienced this positive effect first hand in our recent meetings with the artisans of the tea world. The thing I had not anticipated was the reverse impact we have on them? I suppose many producers have little perspective on their own work as they are bound to that tea culture which forms such a part of them. It is true that this proximity to the tradition contributes to the richness of a place since the knowledge handed down for many generations suggests a more authentic product.

On the other hand, travel is very educational even for those who only receive passing travellers. Following a meeting with a producer, if the atmosphere is one of discovery, Hugo usually offers a comparative tasting of some teas from other regions. Darjeeling, Anji Bai Cha and other unknown teas bring an unexplored range of taste to these craftsmen. It is all done modestly for the sole purpose of transmitting our work, our philosophy, and to share more with them. In showing them the Camellia book, we add a visual aspect to the different tea processing techniques in Asia . Many stimulating discussions ensued. I was so proud to see how by visiting the producers in Asia, Camellia's tasters share an outside perspective and contribute to this unique and dynamic exchange.

Thank you!
Sabrina.