By About the @Programme
Alright, let’s begin with a rather simple question. Have you ever found yourself sipping tea and wondering if there’s more to it than just “this is nice”? If so, you’re already halfway there. Becoming a tea sommelier is not about being overly serious or pretending to know everything. It’s about curiosity, exploration, and occasionally pausing mid-sip to think, “what exactly am I tasting here?” This programme gently invites you into that space, where tea becomes less of a habit and more of a discovery, and yes, it can be quite addictive.
It’s Not Just Drinking Tea (Sadly… or Thankfully)
Now, let’s manage expectations slightly. While there will be plenty of tea involved, this is not simply an endless series of relaxed sipping sessions, although that does sound quite lovely. You will be learning how to observe, compare, and evaluate tea with a bit more intention. Think of it as upgrading your usual tea moment into something a touch more thoughtful. Instead of just enjoying the drink, you begin to notice texture, aroma, and structure. And before you know it, you’ve gone from casual drinker to someone quietly analysing their cup.
Tea Sommelier
A tea sommelier is someone who understands tea in a broader and more detailed way. Not just what it is, but where it comes from, how it is made, how it should be brewed, and how it should be presented. It sounds rather grand, but in reality, it’s simply about building a relationship with tea. You become the person who can confidently recommend a tea, explain its character, and prepare it properly. And occasionally, you may find yourself correcting someone’s brewing method, very politely of course.
Learning to Taste Properly
Tasting tea is, surprisingly, a skill that can be developed. It’s not about having a “special palate,” but about learning to pay attention. You’ll begin to notice layers of flavour, subtle aromas, and the way tea changes over time. At first, it might feel a bit uncertain, like trying to describe something you can’t quite put into words. But with practice, things become clearer. Suddenly, you’re identifying notes, comparing textures, and perhaps even sounding slightly impressive without meaning to. All quite enjoyable, really.
The World of Tea, Unpacked
Tea is wonderfully diverse, and this programme takes you through that landscape in a way that feels approachable rather than overwhelming. From green and white to oolong and puer, each type of tea brings something different to the table. Some are light and refreshing, others deep and complex. As you explore them, you begin to understand not only their differences, but also what makes each one special. It’s rather like meeting a group of very distinct personalities, all connected by a common origin.
Teaware Matters (More Than You Think)
At some point, you’ll realise that teaware is not just decorative. The choice of teapot, cup, or brewing vessel can significantly influence how tea behaves. Different materials retain heat differently, shapes affect infusion, and suddenly everything feels a bit more considered. This is where curiosity often turns into appreciation. You begin to understand why certain teas are paired with certain vessels, and you may even find yourself developing preferences. It’s a small detail that makes a rather noticeable difference.
Understanding Tea Origins
Every tea has a story, and much of that story begins with where it is grown. Climate, soil, altitude, and local traditions all influence the final character of the tea. This part of the programme introduces you to those origins in a way that feels informative without being overwhelming. You begin to see how place shapes flavour, and how tea connects to its environment. It adds a layer of meaning to what might otherwise feel like a simple cup.
From Leaf to Cup
The journey from leaf to cup is more complex than it appears. Processing methods, from withering to oxidation, play a crucial role in defining a tea’s identity. This programme offers a clear and approachable look at those steps, helping you understand how transformation occurs. Once you see the process, you begin to appreciate the effort behind each tea. It becomes less about consumption and more about recognising the craft involved. And that shift, subtle as it is, makes quite a difference.
Pairing Tea with Food
Tea is not limited to being enjoyed on its own. In fact, pairing tea with food opens up an entirely new dimension. Some teas complement sweetness beautifully, while others balance richer or savoury flavours. This part of the journey explores those combinations in a relaxed and enjoyable way. There is no strict rulebook, just a series of discoveries. You may find yourself rethinking how tea fits into meals, or simply enjoying the idea that your afternoon tea can be a little more adventurous.
The Art of Presentation
How tea is presented can completely change the experience. It’s not about being overly formal, but about creating a sense of intention. The arrangement of teaware, the pace of pouring, and the overall atmosphere all contribute to how the tea is received. This aspect of the programme encourages you to think about tea as an experience, not just a drink. And once you start noticing these details, it becomes quite difficult to ignore them. In a good way, of course.
Sensory Training (Without the Drama)
Now, let’s not make this sound too intense. Sensory training simply means learning to notice things more clearly. You’ll practice identifying aromas, textures, and flavours in a way that feels natural rather than forced. There’s no pressure to get everything right immediately. It’s a gradual process, and one that becomes more enjoyable over time. You may even find yourself noticing details in everyday life that you previously overlooked, which is an unexpected but welcome side effect.
Tea Etiquette (Yes, It Exists)
Different cultures approach tea in different ways, and understanding those nuances adds depth to your experience. Tea etiquette is not about strict rules, but about awareness and respect. You’ll learn how tea is served and shared in various settings, and how small gestures can carry meaning. It’s not complicated, but it is thoughtful. And once you become aware of these details, they naturally become part of how you engage with tea.
At some point during the programme, something shifts. You begin to feel more confident in your choices, whether it’s selecting a tea, brewing it, or presenting it. That confidence does not come from memorising information, but from understanding and experience. It develops gradually, and often without you noticing. One day, you simply realise that you know what you’re doing. And that is a rather satisfying moment.
@becoming-tea-sommelier- Discussions
- Topic #1 - Understanding water Temperature
- Topic #2 - Timing the Infusion
- Topic #3 - Tea - to - Water Ratio
- Topic #4 - Choosing the Right Teaware
- Topic #5 - Observing Leaf Behaviour
- Topic #6 - Managing Multiple Infusions
- Topic #7 - Recognising Brewing Mistakes
- Topic #8 - Adjusting Brewing Techniques
- Topic #9 - Building Brewing Confidence
Order of Tea
1: #Channels and @Programmes
( now this is where things become properly organised in a very relaxed, tea – filled sort of way )
❁ There are eight #channels, each offering a minimum of six @programmes. Every @programme runs on a biweekly basis, meaning each #channel takes at least twelve weeks to complete. That said, conversations within each #channel never truly end, discussions remain open, active, and evolving at all times. There is no fixed end to this programme, and perhaps that is part of its appeal. Tea itself is not something that can be fully understood in a single sitting. It evolves, and so does your perception of it. This programme simply offers a place to begin, or perhaps to continue, depending on where you are. Either way, it is a rather pleasant journey to be part of. ❁
1. #Channels and @Programmes
(now this is where things become properly organised in a very relaxed, tea – filled sort of way) – ❁ There are eight #channels, each offering a minimum of six @programmes. Every @programme runs on a biweekly basis, meaning each #channel takes at least twelve weeks to complete. That said, conversations within each #channel never truly end, discussions remain open, active, and evolving at all times. There is no fixed end to this programme, and perhaps that is part of its appeal. Tea itself is not something that can be fully understood in a single sitting. It evolves, and so does your perception of it. This programme simply offers a place to begin, or perhaps to continue, depending on where you are. Either way, it is a rather pleasant journey to be part of. ❁
2: Our #Channels on Discord
( joining our #Channels on Discord is, thankfully, far simpler than it might sound )
Once you express your interest and receive your invite, you’ll find yourself inside a rather lively space with eight main channels: #open-tea-initiative, #becoming, #innovation, #tea-master, #teacast, #teanity, #tea-tasting, and #teaware. Each channel hosts six or more programmes, all running in 15-day cycles, though discussions often continue far beyond that. By joining a channel, you gain access to everything within it, allowing you to explore, learn, and exchange ideas with fellow tea lovers, professionals, and even tea farmers. Complete all programmes within a channel, and you’ll receive a certificate endorsed by Order of Tea and, where applicable, an official Chinese government body. We are also working towards broader accreditation across both Eastern and Western institutions, so yes, it’s all becoming rather official.
2. Our #Channels on Discord
(joining our #Channels on Discord is, thankfully, far simpler than it might sound ) – Once you express your interest and receive your invite, you’ll find yourself inside a rather lively space with eight main channels: #open-tea-initiative, #becoming, #innovation, #tea-master, #teacast, #teanity, #tea-tasting, and #teaware. Each channel hosts six or more programmes, all running in 15-day cycles, though discussions often continue far beyond that. By joining a channel, you gain access to everything within it, allowing you to explore, learn, and exchange ideas with fellow tea lovers, professionals, and even tea farmers. Complete all programmes within a channel, and you’ll receive a certificate endorsed by Order of Tea and, where applicable, an official Chinese government body. We are also working towards broader accreditation across both Eastern and Western institutions, so yes, it’s all becoming rather official.
3: Joining the Conversation on Discord
( invitation, onboarding, and the lively nature of discussion
Once you’ve shared your interest with us, you’ll receive a friendly invitation to join our channels on Discord, where conversations tend to flow rather generously and, if we’re honest, rarely stop entirely. It’s where ideas are exchanged, questions appear out of nowhere, and someone inevitably says something unexpectedly brilliant. All you need to do is join, settle in, and perhaps bring a cup of tea along. It does make the experience feel far more appropriate, after all. Nothing complicated at all, we promise. It’s all rather pleasantly simple.
3. Joining the Conversation on Discord
(invitation, onboarding, and the lively nature of discussion) – Once you’ve shared your interest with us, you’ll receive a friendly invitation to join our channels on Discord, where conversations tend to flow rather generously and, if we’re honest, rarely stop entirely. It’s where ideas are exchanged, questions appear out of nowhere, and someone inevitably says something unexpectedly brilliant. All you need to do is join, settle in, and perhaps bring a cup of tea along. In the end, it does make the experience feel far more appropriate. Nothing complicated at all, we promise. It’s all rather pleasantly simple.
4: Topics that Spark a bit of Curiosity
( different discussion topics for different @programme )
❁ The programme includes a range of 9 discussion topics, carefully chosen to encourage both learning and conversation. These topics are not simply presented and left behind. They are explored, discussed, questioned, and occasionally debated in a rather civilised manner. Some may feel familiar, while others might introduce entirely new perspectives. And every so often, a topic leads to a moment of quiet realisation, the sort where you pause and think, “well, that’s rather interesting.” Those moments, we believe, are where the real value lies. ❁
4. Topics that Spark a bit of Curiosity
(different discussion topics for different @programme) – ❁ The programme includes a range of 9 discussion topics, carefully chosen to encourage both learning and conversation. These topics are not simply presented and left behind. They are explored, discussed, questioned, and occasionally debated in a rather civilised manner. Some may feel familiar, while others might introduce entirely new perspectives. And every so often, a topic leads to a moment of quiet realisation, the sort where you pause and think, “well, that’s rather interesting.” Those moments, we believe, are where the real value lies. ❁
5: Programme Schedule and Structure
( how the sessions run, timing, and intake flow )
Each programme runs every two weeks, which means there’s always something gently unfolding. You’ll be placed into the next available intake, so no long waiting around wondering when things might begin. Sessions take place at a rather civilised time to be discussing tea, and schedule will be announced in Discord Channels. It’s structured enough to keep things moving, yet relaxed enough that it never feels overwhelming. A pleasant balance, really.
5. Programme Schedule and Structure
(how the session run, timing, and intake flow) – Each programme runs every two weeks, which means there’s always something gently unfolding. You’ll be placed into the next available intake, so no long waiting around wondering when things might begin. Sessions take place at a rather civilised time to be discussing tea, and schedule will be announced in Discord Channels. It’s structured enough to keep things moving, yet relaxed enough that it never feels overwhelming. A pleasant balance, really.
6: Flexible Learning and Catching Up
( missed sessions, recordings, and rejoining with ease )
Now, life does have a habit of interrupting even the best intentions. Whatever reason you may have, if you happen to miss a session, there’s absolutely no need to panic. Recordings will be available, so you can catch up at your own pace and quietly slip back into the conversation as if you never left. No dramatic entrances required. The discussions and channels remain open and ongoing, which means you can rejoin whenever it suits you, without feeling like you’ve missed the entire story. And truthfully, we rather enjoy when people return with fresh perspectives.
6. Flexible Learning and Catching Up
(missed sessions, recordings, and rejoining with ease) – Now, life does have a habit of interrupting even the best intentions. Whatever reason you may have, if you happen to miss a session, there’s absolutely no need to panic. Recordings will be available, so you can catch up at your own pace and quietly slip back into the conversation as if you never left. No dramatic entrances required. The discussions and channels remain open and ongoing, which means you can rejoin whenever it suits you, without feeling like you’ve missed the entire story. And truthfully, we rather enjoy when people return with fresh perspectives.
7: Programme Duration and Certification
( 15 – days journey, participation, and certification details )
Each programme itself runs over 15 days, though you’re free to step in and out as needed. We do encourage you to stay the course, of course, but we understand that occasional detours happen. Should you complete the full journey, and resist disappearing midway for an extended “tea break”, you will receive a certificate recognising your participation. This may be issued by Order of Tea and, where applicable, endorsed by an official government body, which does sound rather impressive, doesn’t it.
7. Duration & Certification
(15 – days journey, participation, and certification details) – Each programme itself runs over 15 days, though you’re free to step in and out as needed. We do encourage you to stay the course, of course, but we understand that occasional detours happen. Should you complete the full journey, and resist disappearing midway for an extended “tea break”, you will receive a certificate recognising your participation. This may be issued by Order of Tea and, where applicable, endorsed by an official government body, which does sound rather impressive, doesn’t it.
8: Ongoing Learning and In – Person Opportunity
( continuous learning that end when you say so, and in person opportunity )
As part of the #Channel, this programme is designed as an ongoing experience rather than a one-off event. It continues without a strict ending, allowing conversations and ideas to develop naturally over time. While the core sessions are theory-based and delivered online, there are also opportunities for more hands-on, in-person experiences during harvesting seasons. These vary each year, which keeps things interesting. If you’re keen, simply let us know, and we’ll keep you gently informed.
8. No Strict Ending – online / offline
(continuous learning that end when you say so, and in person opportunity) – As part of the #Channel, this programme is designed as an ongoing experience rather than a one-off event. It continues without a strict ending, allowing conversations and ideas to develop naturally over time. While the core sessions are theory-based and delivered online, there are also opportunities for more hands-on, in-person experiences during harvesting seasons. These vary each year, which keeps things interesting. If you’re keen, simply let us know, and we’ll keep you gently informed.
9: From Conversation to Podcast Platforms
( let’s give it that slightly exciting “we’re going public” feeling )
What begins as a conversation does not simply stay within the room. Selected Teacast sessions may be carefully curated and shared across podcast platforms, allowing your ideas, reflections, and tea stories to travel a little further than expected. It’s a rather lovely way of extending the experience beyond the group, giving others the chance to listen, learn, and occasionally nod along in agreement. Of course, everything is handled thoughtfully, and you’ll always know what is being shared and where.
9. From Conversation to Podcast
(let’s give it that slightly exciting “we’re going public” feeling) – What begins as a conversation does not simply stay within the room. Selected Teacast sessions may be carefully curated and shared across podcast platforms, allowing your ideas, reflections, and tea stories to travel a little further than expected. It’s a rather lovely way of extending the experience beyond the group, giving others the chance to listen, learn, and occasionally nod along in agreement. Of course, everything is handled thoughtfully, and you’ll always know what is being shared and where.
10: Trial Access and Refund Policy
( try – before – commit, refund reassurance, and overall ease of participation )
And finally, a small reassurance, because we do like to keep things fair and friendly. You’re welcome to try the programme for few sessions before deciding whether it’s quite your cup of tea. If it’s not, no hard feelings at all. We’ll arrange a refund (if any) without any complicated questions. The only thing to note is that cross-border refunds may take a few days to process. Simple, straightforward, and entirely civilised, just as it should be.
10: Trial Access and Refund Policy
(try – before – commit, refund reassurance, and overall ease of participation) – And finally, a small reassurance, because we do like to keep things fair and friendly. You’re welcome to try the programme for few sessions before deciding whether it’s quite your cup of tea. If it’s not, no hard feelings at all. We’ll arrange a refund without any complicated questions. The only thing to note is that cross-border refunds may take a few days to process. Simple, straightforward, and entirely civilised, just as it should be.
Curious about what we’re brewing? Your EOI is a simple way to let us know if you might like to join our #Channels, whether on Discord or in person. And if your answer is a firm, even slightly brutal no, we completely understand and promise we will survive. There’s no pressure and absolutely no commitment. Just leave us a little hint, and when something rather lovely starts brewing, you’ll be the first to know.
Curious about what we’re brewing? Your EOI is a simple way to let us know if you might like to join our #Channels, whether on Discord or in person. And if your answer is a firm, even slightly brutal NO, we completely understand and promise we’ll survive. There’s no pressure and absolutely no commitment. Just leave us a little hint, express your interest (EOI) and when something rather lovely starts brewing, you’ll be the first to know.
#Open-Tea-Initiative
@PROGRAMMES FEATURED IN THIS CHANNEL-
The Kettle's On - Let's begin this little tea journey together. Your cup's await! So do we.
-
What's Brewing - Find out what we've been quietly preparing. Its your cup of tea for sure.
-
Tea in its Forms - Discover the tea varieties and how wonderfully diverse they can be.
-
Making of Teas - Getting to know how tea is made from Leaf to Craft, Step by Step.
-
From Leaf to Cup - Fellowship of the amazing Tea Leaf from Plant to Cup. Yes, the whole Trip!
-
The Art of Teaware - Finding the Vessel that truly suits your Cup of Tea. Not anything.
-
Mastery of Tea Art - Become Tea Art Master and refine your skills with elegance and ease.
-
Becoming Tea Sommelier - Step into expertise, a deeper world of Tea knowledge.
-
Creating Tea Brand - Shape your own Tea Story and Identity. Yes, no doubt you can do it.
-
Define Tea Ritual - Create a Tea Ritual from the scratch that feels entirely your own.
-
Sharing via Teacast - Tea without Border! Share ideas, stories, and voices in Tea.
#Open-Tea-Initiative
@PROGRAMMES FEATURED IN THIS CHANNEL-
The Kettle's On - Let's begin this little tea journey together. Your cup's await! So do we.
-
What's Brewing - Find out what we've been quietly preparing. Its your cup of tea for sure.
-
Tea in its Forms - Discover the tea varieties and how wonderfully diverse they can be.
-
Making of Teas - Getting to know how tea is made from Leaf to Craft, Step by Step.
-
From Leaf to Cup - Fellowship of the amazing Tea Leaf from Plant to Cup. Yes, the whole Trip!
-
The Art of Teaware - Finding the Vessel that truly suits your Cup of Tea. Not anything.
-
Mastery of Tea Art - Become Tea Art Master and refine your skills with elegance and ease.
-
Becoming Tea Sommelier - Step into expertise, a deeper world of Tea knowledge.
-
Creating Tea Brand - Shape your own Tea Story and Identity. Yes, no doubt you can do it.
-
Define Tea Ritual - Create a Tea Ritual from the scratch that feels entirely your own.
-
Sharing via Teacast - Tea without Border! Share ideas, stories, and voices in Tea.
#Open-Tea-Initiative
@PROGRAMMES FEATURED IN THIS CHANNEL-
The Kettle's On - Let's begin this little tea journey together. Your cup's await! So do we.
-
What's Brewing - Find out what we've been quietly preparing. Its your cup of tea for sure.
-
Tea in its Forms - Discover the tea varieties and how wonderfully diverse they can be.
-
Making of Teas - Getting to know how tea is made from Leaf to Craft, Step by Step.
-
From Leaf to Cup - Fellowship of the amazing Tea Leaf from Plant to Cup. Yes, the whole Trip!
-
The Art of Teaware - Finding the Vessel that truly suits your Cup of Tea. Not anything.
-
Mastery of Tea Art - Become Tea Art Master and refine your skills with elegance and ease.
-
Becoming Tea Sommelier - Step into expertise, a deeper world of Tea knowledge.
-
Creating Tea Brand - Shape your own Tea Story and Identity. Yes, no doubt you can do it.
-
Define Tea Ritual - Create a Tea Ritual from the scratch that feels entirely your own.
-
Sharing via Teacast - Tea without Border! Share ideas, stories, and voices in Tea.