Dao Tea Shop, a Richmond-based artisan tea shop producing sustainable tea products, has been inspired by the masters. On his tea-hunting trips in 2009, owner Pedro Villalon, who lived for two years with his family in China, formed personal relationships and learned the tea-making craft from at least seven tea masters working in the mountains of Asia. As Pedro notes, his goal was to create a one degree separation between farmers and producers, in contrast to many large tea companies who employ farmers, highly process their crops with added preservatives, and sell to wholesalers. Dao Tea shares some memories in the slide show and photos below.
Dao Tea has forged relationships with growers based on trust, fair trade, sustainability and a shared passion for tea. Pedro's vision is to bring fine handcrafted tea to the world by partnering with farmers who employ centuries old traditions. Many of the tea masters he has met have never had the opportunity to share their creations and artisan skill beyond their own village, so Pedro has partnered with them to promote their fine creations and support their way of life too. Traveling to remote areas in China and Korea, Pedro was met with kindness, hospitality and was introduced to the traditions of artisan tea-making. As he notes, some of the most fragrant and fresh tea in the world is produced in the villages he visited.
In a recent private tea-tasting in Richmond, Pedro introduced many exciting new teas including Pu Er "green" tea which is rich in anti-oxidants and is a general health enhancer with low caffeine levels. Other varieties include Sejak and Wild Chrysanthemum which aids in relaxation and detoxifying the body, and has a cooling sensation as well. Flowers are bonfire roasted creating a pleasant, light smoky taste experience. Balhyocha tea is amber coloured with smooth balanced wood notes. Pedro's tea experience begins with a lit candle and a glass pot to enjoy full colour, fragrance and relaxation benefits. Ceramic pots can actually absorb the scent and diminish your tea drinking experience.
Explore Dao Tea's varieties and health benefits and learn about the unique growing conditions required to produce the freshest and healthiest tea leaves possible. Discover Dao Tea's seasonal specials , gift certificates and eco-friendly packaging . Prices range from $10.99 to $21.99 per 45 gram package. Each package provides 30 to 55 cups of enlightenment for about the price of a bottle of wine. As a plus, a photo of the tea master can be sent with a gift order upon request. Order online or contact by e-mail. Subscribe to Dao Tea's newsletter or visit their blog to be inspired and learn about this fascinating new local company.
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Comments
Nice article! Coming from a tea producing family, I'm aware that every year there are fewer independent tea farmers left... I'm glad there's a way to support them and buy their goods in Canada.
Very well put together. I am sold. I will keep an eye out for Dao tea.
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