Becoming a Connoisseur

The Science Behind a Bold but Balanced Tea Infusion (Part 2)

By: D.O. Rothenberg July 31, 2020July 31, 2020

Becoming a Connoisseur, Infusion & Extraction, Processing, Tea ChemistryTea Connoisseur, Tea Extraction, Tea Flavor, Tea Infusion4 Comments

Part 2 includes the factors to consider when calculating “the right” tea extraction time and water temperature (i.e. tea type, production technique, growing conditions). We also dive into healthful but bitter tea polyphenols – how to extract enough while maintaining a well-balanced brew.

The Science Behind a Bold but Balanced Tea Infusion (Part 1)

By: D.O. Rothenberg July 30, 2020July 31, 2020

Becoming a Connoisseur, Infusion & Extraction, Tea ChemistryTea Extraction, Tea Infusion, Tea ScienceLeave a Comment

This piece is part one of two aimed at offering an in-depth but accessible look at the science of tea infusion. What compounds are bitter, or savory, and how do we brew for balance?

Green Tea Chemistry 101: Key Compounds for Flavor Quality

By: D.O. Rothenberg October 8, 2019October 10, 2019

Becoming a Connoisseur, Green Tea, Tea Chemistry, Types & VarietalsAmino Acid, Antioxidant, Catechin, Chinese Tea, Green Tea, L-Theanine, Polyphenol, Tea Flavor, Tea ScienceLeave a Comment

Discussing what makes a green tea exceptional. Key players are L-theanine, EGCG, soluble sugars, non-gallated catechin compounds, and more

Why is Nannuo Shan a Top Tea Terroir? Ecology, Culture, History (Part 2)

The second of two pieces on Nannuo Shan. Ancient tea trees, the vibes of Nannuo, local history, processing tea with the locals, overall impressions.

Why is Nannuo Shan a Top Tea Terroir? Ecology, Culture, History (Part 1)

By: D.O. Rothenberg September 29, 2019September 29, 2019

Becoming a Connoisseur, Cultivation, Terroir, Types & VarietalsChina, Chinese Tea, Cultivation, Ecology, Health, Heritage, Love, Tea, Tea Culture, Tea Terroir, Yunnan3 Comments

My thoughts regarding the Nannuo Shan terroir following my initial trip there in 2017. Local culture, recent history and ecological protection efforts. How they effect tea tree growth and more.