Tea Taster Gaiwan

Simple and unadorned, these porcelain gaiwans are perfect quotidian teaware, fine enough to enjoy using, yet without needing any special care. Their uniform size and lack of markings make them especially suited to side-by-side or blind tea tastings, where the smooth, white porcelain will allow comparison of infusion colour, and their lightweight, sturdy construction and ease of handling will allow multiple to be shuttled around the tea table without fear of breakage. And with a low price and our discounts on orders of multiple, they are an excellent entry-level gaiwan and a motivation for your next tea party. Call it your everyday china.

For a larger version, consider the 150 millilitre Tea Taster Gaiwan, and pair with our Tea Taster Cups for a complete tea tasting set. Alternatively, many professionals use a Tasting Mug for standardised tea comparisons.

Why do I need a gaiwan?

The gaiwan is the most common tea vessel in China. It comprises three pieces: a thin-walled, handle-less cup, a saucer, and a lid. The cup is given a flared lip to hold it without burning one’s fingers.

According to custom, you should brew only the precise quantity of tea that you need to serve you and your guests. Several infusions follow; only freshly brewed tea is dispensed in the cups. This procedure guarantees best results.

Unlike Yixing teapots, the gaiwan does not retain odours. So you can brew different kinds of tea in the same gaiwan.

Usage: steep the leaves in the gaiwan and pour the brewed tea into a second pot for serving. Use a strainer if necessary. Repeat several times, refilling the gaiwan.