By Katrina Wild & Lorela Lohan, WanderlusTea
Welcome to the library of WanderlusTea, steeped in knowledge and inspiration for anyone
seeking to go deeper in their expertise about tea. This blog will offer a comprehensive list of
tea books for enthusiasts, industry specialists, travellers, artists, and chefs, as well as other
informative resources like magazines and blogs.
For Tea Enthusiasts
The Book of Tea (Le Livre du Thé; 茶の本)
By Kazukō Okakura
Amazon (Languages English & French)
Okakura Kakuzō's timeless work, "The Book of Tea" originally written in 1906, continues to hold its relevance in the contemporary era. Within this Japanese tea book, Kakuzo masterfully combines elements of Taoism, the Zen philosophy's influence, and, notably, the tea ceremony.
Crafted with a Western readership in consideration, " The Book of Tea" endeavours to bridge the cultural divide between East and West with genuineness and sincerity.
Tea: History, Terroirs, Varieties.
By Kevin Gascoyne, Francois Marchand, Jasmin Desharnais, Hugo Americi.
Amazon (Language English)
An updated edition of the "World's Best Tea Book", recognised by the 2014 World Tea Awards. This comprehensive guide delves into changing tea trends, production advancements, climate impact, and an evolving tea market. With new content and photos, TeaTime Magazine calls it 'the reference we've been waiting for'. Library Journal hails it as a 'definitive guide for die-hard tea enthusiasts".
Join a journey through global tea origins, exploring how 'terroir' influences each tea's unique character. Authored by the owners of Montreal's Camellia Sinensis Tea House, this book covers an array of teas, from black to green, and provides a wealth of insights, from history to preparation methods, teapot recommendations, and 15 gourmet tea-infused recipes.
The Story of Tea.
By Mary Lou Heiss & Robert J. Heiss
Amazon (Language English)
Veteran tea traders and tea historians Mary Lou Heiss and Robert J. Heiss take you on a global journey through the art and industry of tea.
Explore the tea trail, from China's lush forests to Japan's Buddhist temples and India's vast gardens. Examine Camellia sinensis, the tea bush, and how subtle differences in territory and production contribute to the diversity of colour, flavour, and quality in brewed tea. Discover an in-depth profile of over thirty tea varieties, as well as brewing techniques, customs, and crafts associated with tea, as well as an insider's view of the tea trade. Uncover the latest research on tea's health benefits, organic production, and fair trade practices. This beautifully illustrated book is your gateway to the rich history and diverse flavours of tea, with bonus tea-inspired recipes to savour.
Le guide de dégustation de l'amateur de thé.
By Christine Barbaste, François-Xavier Delmas, Mathias Minet.
Fnac | Amazon | Palais des Thés (Language French)
This is your go-to reference for everything tea. With three decades of experience traveling to select the finest teas, the Palais des Thés creators share a treasure trove of secrets they've gathered during their journeys. Packed with insightful and clear information, this guide invites you into the world of tea gardens and introduces you to the passionate artisans who craft the beloved brew. François-Xavier Delmas and Mathias Minet unlock the art of tasting, provide essential infusion tips, and present their selection of the world's top 50 teas.
The Life of Tea: A Journey to the World’s Finest Teas.
By Timothy d'Offay and Michael Freeman.
Amazon (Language English)
Embark on a captivating exploration of the world's beloved beverage with documentary photographer Michael Freeman and tea expert Timothy d'Offay "The Life of Tea" unveils the terroir, flavours, and cultural significance of tea through stunning photography. Delve into botany, cultivation, and processing methods, and discover the profound impact of tea on various cultures. Follow their globe-trotting adventures in China, Japan, India, and Sri Lanka, meeting the artisans behind exquisite teas. This book is the definitive journey from tea plantation to teapot, ideal for enthusiasts and curious readers alike.
For Tea Specialists
Tea Dictionary.
By James Norwood Pratt.
With an emphasis on clarity, it includes Chinese characters whenever possible. This dictionary offers insights into the nuances of tea, from flavour profiles to unique facts like the world's largest collection of porcelain, Veilleuse-Théières in Trenton, Tennessee. Whether you're exploring tea terminology or seeking to enhance your tea knowledge, this dictionary is an indispensable tool for every tea specialist.
Pu'er Tea: Ancient Caravans and Urban Chic.
By Jinghong Zhang.
Eastern Leaves (Language English)
Explore the captivating journey of Pu'er tea, which has ancient roots in Yunnan Province's 'Six Great Tea Mountains.' Once a prized commodity in imperial China, it made its way to Tibet via the legendary Ancient Tea Horse Road and graced the emperor's court in Beijing. Rediscovered in the 1990s, Pu'er tea attained cult status worldwide, drawing comparisons to wine appreciation. Urban connoisseurs embraced it, leading to soaring prices. However, in 2007, local events and a global economic crisis triggered a Pu'er market collapse. Anthropologist Jinghong Zhang's ethnographic account unravels the rise, peak, and fall of this phenomenon, from its humble origins to a major industry with both expected challenges and surprising consequences.
L'Empire du thé: Le guide des thés de Chine.
By Katrin Rougeventre.
Website (Language French)
This 500-page guide is a comprehensive reference for all things Chinese tea. With stunning images and detailed maps, it's divided into three parts:
Explore the origins, culture, and varieties of Chinese tea, delving into porcelain, accessories, and tea houses.
Journey through the terroirs and great teas of China, from the Long River to the south and southwest.
Discover the art of tea preparation, rituals, and choosing the finest Chinese teas.
In addition, an index showcases over 200 teas, their origins, and an appendix of global tea sources. A must-have for tea connoisseurs and those eager to explore the diverse world of Chinese tea.
The Tale of Tea.
By George van Driem.
Amazon (Language English)
Tea's impact reaches from the birth of paper money to the Opium Wars, from Hong Kong's inception to the Anglo-Dutch and American independence conflicts. It left an indelible mark on Tang and Song China, influencing their economies and military history, while shaping Chinese art and culture. In the 17th century, when the Dutch and English waged war over tea, the world's largest black tea producers, India, Kenya, and Sri Lanka, had no tea plantations. This 924-page book dispels common myths and reveals the hidden origins and intricate history behind today's globalised beverage in its diverse forms.
Tea: A Nerd's Eye View.
By Virginia Utermohlen Lovelace MD.
Amazon (Language English)
Understand the impact of factors like terrain, bud quality, water, brewing time, and temperature on tea flavours.
This book also delves into the sensory experiences of tea, the plant's evolution, and the origins of the term "tea." Virginia Utermohlen Lovelace MD, a physician-scientist and tea nerd, offers an engaging blend of sensory enjoyment and scientific insights for both tea aficionados and newcomers.
Tea & Travel
The Ancient Tea Horse Road: Travels With the Last of the Himalayan Muleteers.
By Jeff Fuchs.
Amazon (Language English)
Follow award-winning explorer Jeff Fuchs on a thrilling 5,000 km journey through the Himalayas along the legendary Ancient Tea Horse Road, fueled by tea. As the first Westerner to document this ancient trade route, he and his eclectic team of Tibetans, Han, and indigenous tea growers traversed Yunnan, Sichuan, Tibet, Nepal, and India. Experience breathtaking landscapes, captivating customs, and the zany camaraderie of the group. This epic tale uncovers the rich tapestry of the Tea Horse Road's history while Fuchs and his crew, driven by their passion for tea and a quest to preserve the tales of vanishing traders, embark on an unforgettable adventure. A captivating exploration of tea, mountains, and memories awaits.
Chercheur de Thé.
Blog by François-Xavier Delmas.
Website (Languages English and French)
Join François-Xavier Delmas, founder of Palais des Thés, on an enchanting journey through the world of tea. This beautifully curated book, based on his celebrated blog, marks its tenth anniversary. Delmas shares his passion, expertise, and the stories of his global tea adventures. The book is divided into six chapters, including insights into tea culture, harvesting, manufacturing, and tasting. With evocative photos and profound yet concise text, it's a delightful read for tea and travel enthusiasts. Discover the people, customs, and traditions behind the exquisite teas you savour. Delmas's knowledge and encounters make this a captivating invitation to explore diverse tea cultures.
Theeroutes - Met thee de wereld rond.
By Deirdre Deprettere and Karlijn Dapper.
Website | Amazon | Four Leaves (Language Dutch)
If you're a budding tea tourist, "Tea Routes" is your inaugural tea travel companion. Explore fifteen diverse tea regions across eleven countries, from India to the Netherlands. This visually captivating book features stunning imagery, captivating narratives, and useful travel insights. It not only imparts tea wisdom and tips but also offers tasting notes, enabling you to embark on your tea adventures or enjoy teas at home.
Tea & Art
Portraits de Thés, Voyage dans 40 pays producteurs de thé.
By Lydia Gautier.
Explore the fascinating world of tea with Lydia Gautier, an agricultural engineer and tea expert, as she introduces 119 teas from across the globe. From the classics to hidden gems she adores, each tea is portrayed like a work of art, accompanied by exquisite photography and expert tips for preparation and tasting. Whether you're a tea connoisseur or simply curious, this book is your gateway to the diverse and rich universe of this iconic beverage.
Gong Fu Cha. Tee als Handwerkskunst und das bewusste Genießen.
By Tina Wagner Lange, Maurice K Grunig, Judith Gmur-Stalder.
Länggass-Tee Website (Language German)
Delve into the rich culture of tea, both past and present, with a focus on the art of crafting and savouring this timeless beverage. This book seamlessly weaves together tea knowledge, insights into modern tea culture, and tantalising tea-infused recipes, offering a comprehensive exploration of the world of tea, specifically, Gong Fu Cha.
The Ancient Art of Tea: Wisdom From the Old Chinese Tea Masters.
By Warren Peltier.
Amazon (Language English)
A profound exploration of the philosophy, history, and cultural significance of tea in China. Warren Peltier unveils the intricate steps and conditions necessary for this ancient art, including the right ambiance, pristine spring water, proper fire, steeping expertise, and a deep comprehension of tea appreciation. Delving into historic tea writings, such as Zhang You Xin's Chronicle on Water for Brewing Tea, Xu Ci Shu's Discourse on Fire, Lu Yu's Description of the "Three Boils", Chen Ji Ru on the Merits of Tasting Tea with Company, and Gu Yuan Qing's Eight Requisites for Tasting Tea, this book enriches tea enthusiasts' understanding on this timeless elixir of life.
Tea & Food
Tea: Wine’s Sober Sibling.
By Mariëlla Erkens.
"Wine's Sober Sibling" is a comprehensive guide to the world of tea and food pairing, offering over 70 original recipes alongside stunning images. This book draws parallels between tea and wine, showcasing how to match tea with food in a clear and user-friendly manner. Exploring the basics of tea, brewing techniques, and characteristics of various teas, it even delves into unique pairings like tea and cheese, tea and chocolate, and tea-infused mixed drinks. Learn to cook with tea through easy recipes and discover various steeping methods. Perfect for sommeliers, tea enthusiasts, home cooks, and anyone seeking non-alcoholic alternatives to wine and beer. With 294 pages of information, including tea-related resources, this book is a valuable addition to your culinary library.
Culinary Tea: More Than 150 Recipes Steeped in Tradition from Around the World.
By Cynthia Gold and Lise Stern.
Amazon (Language English)
"Culinary Tea" reimagines the timeless ingredient of tea as a culinary treasure for both home and professional chefs. Delve into the millennia-old history of tea production, its global cultivation, and its rich trading legacy. This cutting-edge book goes beyond the teacup, featuring over 100 innovative recipes showcasing a variety of teas, from classic black teas to exclusive fresh leaves. Discover ancient classics like Chinese Tea-Smoked Duck alongside inventive creations like Smoked Tea-Brined Capon and Assam Shortbread. Tea enthusiasts and food lovers alike will find this book an indispensable culinary companion.
Thés et Mets: Subtiles Alliances.
By Lydia Gautier and Jean-François Mallet.
This book uncovers the gastronomic potential of tea, with a palette as diverse as wine. It transcends boundaries, elevating everyday cuisine with creative pairings. Discover the perfect marriage of wulong tea with buckwheat, sausage, and Comté cheese, or Ceylon black tea with lamb and prunes. From appetisers to desserts, this book harmonises 50 teas with 500 sweet and savoury dishes. With 25 accessible teas as your starting point, each one is accompanied by two detailed recipes, ensuring you can impress your guests with 50 exceptional tea and food combinations.
Magazines & Online Publications
Eighty Degrees
By Martin Boháčik, Founder and Editor-in-Chief
Website (Language English)
Unleash your tea expertise with an artisanal magazine. Eighty Degrees delves into the narratives surrounding tea, providing a richer comprehension and enhancing your brewing of favourite tea leaves. Three issues per year featuring 156 pages, exquisite uncoated paper, custom illustrations, and breathtaking photography.
Tea Journey
By Dan Bolton, Founder & Editor-in-Chief
Website (Language English)
Tea Journey, founded by Dan Bolton, is a global bridge connecting tea artisans in 35 countries with premium consumers worldwide. It sources content from tea lands, translating and retelling stories from Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, and Japanese publications. With regular blog posts and in-depth digital issues featuring tasting notes, interviews, and profiles, it enriches tea expertise. Subscribers enjoy 24/7 access, tailored notifications, and global distribution, benefiting tea growers and fostering responsible production. Join the digital caravan of storytellers!
T-Magazin
By Olaf Tarmas, Founder & Editor-in-Chief
Website (Language German)
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