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popularity of specialty coffee, incorporating tea ceremony
elements into coffee shops may not be feasible or necessary,
as each beverage offers its own unique enjoyment. Reflect-
ing on these insights, it’s clear that while the influence of
tea on specialty coffee may not be immediately apparent,
the underlying principles of ceremony, mindfulness, and
cultural appreciation are undeniably present in both worlds.
Moving onto harvesting practices, the differences
between tea and coffee are evident. Tea leaves are metic-
ulously hand-picked, with harvesting techniques varying
Reflecting on this issue’s theme of dÀnyuán, this ex- depending on the type of tea. These leaves then undergo a
ploration served as a reminder of how different parts may series of processing methods, including oxidation and
come together to form a whole. So, with this article I want drying, to achieve their desired flavor profiles. In contrast,
to share with you what I have discovered and what this coffee beans are harvested by hand at their peak ripeness.
means for the tea and coffee industries. Beyond that, I want The methods for harvesting Arabica and Robusta beans
you to consider how this evolution reflects our human ca- differ, with careful attention paid to ensuring each bean is
pacity to grow, learn from each others’ cultures, and deep- picked at the optimal moment.
en our appreciation for nature’s gifts, such as tea and coffee, When it comes to brewing, both tea and coffee have
as well as our connections with each other over time. their own intricate techniques. Tea brewing emphasizes
precision, with specific water temperatures and steeping
Contrasts in Tea and Coffee Practices times tailored to each tea variety. Factors such as leaf
appearance and aroma play crucial roles in determining
Tea, often regarded as the second most consumed the brewing process. Conversely, coffee brewing focuses
beverage globally, has a rich history and a profound impact on variables like grind size, water-to-coffee ratio, and
on various cultures. Its journey traces back to ancient Chi- extraction time to achieve desired flavors. Grind size,
na around 2700 BCE, where it was deeply intertwined with extraction time, and water temperature all contribute to
tradition and spirituality. From ceremonial practices in the final cup, with each element carefully calibrated to
Chinese dynasties to its global spread along the Silk Road, produce the perfect brew.
tea has become synonymous with hospitality, mindfulness, One of the most intriguing realizations that emerged
and connection. Conversely, coffee’s origins in Ethiopia led from this article was the stark contrast of opinions among
to its global symbolization of socialization and indulgence. the interviewees. While delving into the perspectives of
From a cultural standpoint, tea ceremonies hold a re- experts, it became evident that cultural influences shape
vered place in many societies, particularly in Asia, where their views on the intersection of tea and specialty coffee.
they are deeply ingrained in tradition. In China, for example, For instance, my interviewee from China conveyed a belief
tea extends beyond mere consumption to encompass cloth- that tea’s influence on coffee is not as substantial as some-
ing, decorations, and ceremonial rituals. Meanwhile, in the one from the West might assume.
West, tea ceremonies often involve modern adaptations like In contrast, experts from Western countries present-
“Afternoon Tea,” emphasizing different cultural priorities. ed a different viewpoint, suggesting a more nuanced appre-
Coffee ceremonies, though less widespread, have their ciation for the potential synergy between tea and specialty
own unique charm, such as the communal Ethiopian coffee coffee cultures. This disparity in opinions underscores the
ceremonies known for their simplicity and warmth. Unlike diverse perspectives that exist within the global beverage
the formalized nature of tea ceremonies, coffee rituals community and highlights the importance of considering
often center around creating personal connections and cultural context when exploring such topics. Reflecting on
enhancing everyday experiences. these contrasting viewpoints, I couldn’t help but consider
Through conversations with a tea expert in China, I my own perspective. Coming from a background where tea
learned that while tea culture emphasizes ritualistic gath- drinking and ceremonies aren’t deeply ingrained in my
erings and aesthetic appreciation, coffee culture thrives on country’s heritage, I approached this exploration with a
distinct ambiance and daily rituals. Despite the growing sense of curiosity and openness.

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