Why do we need to use a fairness cup?

 

Gongfu tea is a type of Chinese tea ceremony that is often used in order to appreciate the taste and aroma of tea. In order to properly execute a gongfu tea ceremony, it is important to use a fairness cup, also known as a tea pitcher. The fairness cup helps to ensure that everyone partaking in the tea ceremony is able to enjoy the tea equally.

 

What is a Fairness Cup?

A fairness cup is a vessel that is used in order to pour brewed tea into and then share with others. The main function of the fairness cup is to create an equal distribution of tea so that everyone partaking in the ceremony receives an equal portion of the brewed tea. It is also important to note that the fairness cup helps to keep the concentration of the tea consistent throughout. This is especially important when you consider that gongfu tea ceremonies often involve multiple infusions of the same batch of leaves.

 

Why Use a Fairness Cup? 

The primary reason for using a fairness cup is to ensure that everyone partaking in the gongfu tea ceremony receives an equal portion of brewed tea. It is also important to use a fairness cup in order to maintain a consistent concentration of tea throughout multiple infusions. Finally, pouring the brewed tea into a fairness cup helps to cool down the temperature of the tea so that it can be enjoyed immediately.

 

Types of Tea Pitchers

There are three main types of tea pitchers: ceramic, glass, and stainless steel. Each type has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Ceramic Tea Pitchers: Ceramic tea pitchers are often the most attractively priced option on the market. They also retain heat well, which is ideal if you like your tea piping hot. However, ceramic pitchers are also the most fragile option, so they're not ideal if you have kids or pets in your home who could knock them over.

Glass Tea Pitchers: Glass tea pitchers offer a more modern look than ceramic pitchers and they're also shatter-resistant, making them a safer option if you have kids or pets in your home. However, glass pitchers don't retain heat as well as ceramic or stainless steel options, so they're not ideal if you like your tea piping hot.

Clay Tea Pitchers: Clay tea pitchers are considered to be superior to both porcelain and glass pitchers. This is because the clay helps to preserve the flavor and aroma of the tea leaves. Clay tea pitchers should be used with one type of tea only, as they will absorb the flavor of the tea leaves over time.

 

 

Comfort of Holding and Pouring

When choosing a tea pitcher, it's important to consider both the comfort of holding and pouring. A good tea pitcher should feel comfortable in your hand and should have a spout that makes pouring easy and mess-free.

Conclusion:

There are many factors to consider when choosing a tea pitcher but hopefully this guide has made the process a little less daunting for you. When shopping for a tea pitcher, keep in mind the type of material you want (ceramic, glass, or yixing clay, whether or not you want a spout for easy pouring, comfort of holding, and an appropriate size for how much tea you typically brew at one time. With all of these factors in mind, finding the perfect tea pitcher for your needs will be a breeze!