Dominic T. wrote:
> I have always been a stickler for pure white coating/enamel/porcelain
> for any of my teacups or mugs so that I can see the exact hue and the
> leaves as they should be. But I recently switched over to clear glass
> cups/mugs/gaiwans and I don't think there is any chance of turning
> back. Being able to fully appreciate the colors and the leaves in their
> agony has made the past month of tea even more enjoyable and
> fulfilling.

I'm definitely with you on this one; gaiwans are very useful. The only
tea that I brew in pots anymore is Gao Shan. I do have a pot that I
especially use for Tie Guan Yin, but ever since the poor spring crop
and all the warnings I've seen (including a news segment in Hong Kong
last week) about the hygiene of the tea and additives, I've pretty much
curbed my TGY drinking. **hopes for a decent and clean autumn crop**

Pu'er isn't a tea that's exactly appreciated for it's scent, so using a
gaiwan is no problem. The other misc. wulongs that I drink also seem
to go well in gaiwan. You don't have to worry about residual flavors
affecting the flavor of the tea you are brewing and it's a much easier
clean-up. I sometimes despise trying to get every last little bit of
leaf out of those tiny freaking pots.

As for using a clear glass gaiwan, I've often thought of buying one,
but I am simply too lazy to make a trip to the market these days. I
guess I'll get around to it eventually. I'd have to find one that
isn't so hot when you are brewing.