Hong Kong: MingCha Tea Tasting and Pairing Workshop｜China

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Chinese tea with a workshop at MingCha Tea House in Hong Kong. Founded by artist and designer-turned-entrepreneur Vivian Mak, MingCha has earned prestigious accolades, including the Hong Kong Top Brand award in 2017 and recognition as one of the “World’s Best Tea Shops” by FOOD & WINE Magazine.

Begin your experience with a sensory exploration of tea, engaging all five senses—sight, smell, taste, touch, and even sound—to fully appreciate the nuances of Chinese tea. Explore a curated selection of 4-5 teas, typically including green, scented green, red, oolong, white, and puer varieties.

Learn to observe the tea leaves, smell the aroma of both dry and steeped leaves, and savor the evolving taste profiles through multiple brews (5-6 rounds per tea). This sensory journey is enriched with stories about each tea’s origin, cultural significance, and production process.

Led by knowledgeable tea masters, the workshop covers a comprehensive range of topics, including the history, botany, classification, and production processes of tea. Gain insights into how factors such as harvest, climate, and processing techniques influence the flavor and character of each tea type.

Learn practical brewing tips, teaching participants how to brew tea like a pro using traditional methods, such as the gungfu style with a gaiwan (a lidded bowl used for brewing). This hands-on component allows attendees to practice brewing for themselves and others, fostering a deeper connection to the art of tea.

A highlight of the workshop is the innovative pairing of teas with complementary snacks, elevating the tasting experience. Sample pairings such as rose honey toast, which complements the teas’ flavors with its crisp texture and subtle floral sweetness.

Vivian Mak’s expertise in pairing teas with unexpected foods is frequently praised, with reviews noting how these combinations enhance the overall experience. These pairings not only delight the palate but also teach participants how to recreate similar experiences at home.