A History of Tea tells the compelling story of the rise of tea in Asia and its eventual spread to the West and beyond. From the Chinese tea houses of the ancient Tang Dynasty (618-907) to the Japanese tea ceremonies developed by Zen Buddhist monks, and the current social issues faced by tea growers in India and Sri Lanka—this fascinating book explores the complex history of this universal drink.
This in-depth look illuminates the industries and traditions that have developed as tea spread throughout the world and it explains how tea is transformed into the many varieties that people drink each day.
*Top 10 Nominee of the Spirited Award from the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation*
Authors and experts Nancy Matsumoto and Michael Tremblay personally undertook the challenge of visiting 35 artisanal sake breweries in Japan, the US, and Canada to interview makers and document every stage of the sake brewing process.
With over 300 color photos and a lively narrative, this fascinating book provides:
A comprehensive introduction to the science and history of sake brewing in Japan
A look at how fine craft sakes are brewed today using traditional methods and no additives—only rice, water, koji, and yeast
Histories of Japan's venerable breweries, some of them over 300 years old!
An answer to why some breweries are able to turn out a superior quality of sake
A discussion of rice varieties and the contentious topic of terroir in the context of sake making.
