The World Atlas of Tea: From the Leaf to the Cup, the World's Teas Explored and Enjoyed

The United States is the fourth largest global consumer of tea, with Canada following right behind. Black tea is the most popular but green tea sales are growing rapidly -- more than 60 percent in ten years -- driven by its proven health benefits. Specialty tea outlets are expected to double to nearly 8,000 by 2018 and an additional 40,000 coffee retailers are expected to generate more than 30 percent of their beverage sales from tea.

The World Atlas of Tea covers tea from the ground up, including why the soil in China makes different tea than the soil in India. Tea mixologist Krisi Smith explains what a tea drinker needs to know to appreciate teas of all descriptions. She follows tea from the plantation to harvesting and processing to how to make the perfect cup. The book is illustrated throughout with beautiful color photographs taken in the field.

The contents are:

• Part 1 Tea Basics -- The Tea Plant; Varieties of tea; Altitude, climate and seasons; Harvesting and processing; The tea voyage
• Part 2 Tea Brewing and Drinking -- Tea-brewing basics; Tea tools; Buying, storing and tasting
• Part 3 Tea Blending -- Tisanes, herbal and fruit teas; Scenting, infusions and blending herbs; Blending tea at home; Blending for health; Tea mixology
• Part 4 The World of Tea -- Country profiles of China, Taiwan, Japan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, East Africa.

In this last section, the country profiles open with an introduction that describes the country's tea-growing history alongside a map showing the tea regions. Each area is described as to name, amount of tea produced, tea type, climate, location, and major plantations. Another spread sets out the specific teas grown in that country and describes their production, growing conditions, grade, processing methods, and taste profiles.

The world of tea is here to stay. New varieties will be introduced, new health benefits will be proven, and tea sales will continue to grow. The World Atlas of Tea is an exceptional gift choice and specialty selection for this new world.

Krisi Smith is co-owner of Bluebird Tea Co. (www.bluebirdteaco.com) in Brighton, UK. After years working in the tea industry, Krisi and her partner Mike decided to create their own tea company. As well as its online retail operation, Bluebird Tea Co. has a flagship mixology store and runs courses in tea mixology.