Multiple Infusions

I will be tasting samples and selections of Tie Guan Yin over the next two weeks, but before I begin I wanted to introduce you to my newest gaiwan, from The Tea Gallery. He says hi.

At 60 mL, its small size is nice for experimentation, and for getting the most out of expensive teas. Like many, at one time I balked at tiny teaware, but generally the smaller you go the more useless big seems.

If you’re not inclined to want something this little any time soon, The Tea Gallery also sells the same gaiwan in medium and large, at 90 and 130 mL, respectively. The porcelain is quite delicate, easily the thinnest of my gaiwans, making it lightweight and effortless to use–Ancient Chinese ergonomics at work.

I still break out the 150 mL gaiwan frequently, but it has been relegated to Western-style brewing.