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 also have become a complete convert to gaiwans, and my poor Yixing
has not seen much use for over a month. I'm sure I will eventually work
back into it but I have seen the light and realized what I've been
missing. I was pretty stuck in my ways and really didn't give the
gaiwan much respect, until I began brewing and drinking directly from
it. The other crazy thing is some teas I previously enjoyed I do not
like so much in the more intimate setting of the gaiwan, and when I
analyzed things more closely I found that the tea really has not been
that great in comparison to some others. (some of my most expensive
green kukicha is off my list forever) I have also found I am enjoying
other teas that I previously did not.

Sorry for such a "simple" post but it has had a profound effect on my
enjoyment of tea and I owe thanks to this group for making me break out
of some well-worn ruts, as well as highly recommend trying both or
either if you have not.

- Dominic
Drinking: Numi Assam (in a clear glass mug