A Cultural History and Drinking Guide
by Mary Lou Heiss and Robert J. Heiss

Whether it's a delicate green tea or a bracing Assam black, a cup of tea is a complex brew of art and industry, tradition and revolution, East and West. In this sweeping tour through the world of tea, veteran traders Mary Lou Heiss and Robert J. Heiss chronicle tea's influence across the globe and provide a complete reference for choosing, drinking, and enjoying this beverage. They profile more than 30 essential tea varietals, provide an in-depth guide to tasting and brewing, and survey the customs and crafts associated with tea. They also include 10 sweet and savory recipes, including Green Tea Pot de Crême. Vividly illustrated throughout, The Story of Tea is an engrossing tribute to the illustrious, invigorating, and elusive leaf that has sustained and inspired people for more than 2,000 years.