Zhena’s teas are organic and Fair Trade Certified, benefiting the workers in the tea fields with healthcare, education, autonomy, better working conditions, and freedom from child labor. (Read more about Fair Trade Certification.) They are also certified gluten, GMO and allergen free. And, the line is certified kosher by KSA.
All of the tea (except for the black tea) is biodynamic. Biodynamics is one of the oldest consciously organic approaches to farming and is also one of the most sustainable. One of its prime tenets is a sowing and planting calendar based on lunar cycles (or the moon’s sidereal cycle, as it is known, which forms the basis of the biodynamic calendar). It is believed that food grown in this way stays fresher longer and is more flavorful. While this sounds fantastic to some, many farmers swear it works. There are several other ways in which biodynamic differs from classic organic agriculture, and you can read a full discussion of the difference between biodynamic and organic agriculture elsewhere on TheNibble.com.
The containers that hold the teas are as colorful and vibrant as Zhena herself. Each refillable tin can comes with 22 tea sachets and a message of awareness about one of the many social or environmental causes that Zhena’s supports. The all-metal cans are recyclable, but one will find it difficult to throw them away. Even our photographer asked to take home any extras.
The Tea Companion: A Connoisseur’s Guide, by Jane Pettigrew. A comprehensive, authoritative guide to understanding, purchasing and serving the world's finest teas is beautifully illustrated with full-color photographs of a variety of tea leaves and herbs, as well as their countries of origin. Learn how to store tea so its aromas last, brew it properly for fullest enjoyment, and appreciate the many nuances of flavor to be found in this extraordinary drink. Click here to purchase.
Tea Basics: A Quick and Easy Guide, by Wendy Rasmussen and Ric Rhinehart. A handy reference that covers all of the essentials of tea buying, brewing, and tasting, and explores the comforts of ritual and healing that tea has provided through the centuries. As you sip and savor the wonderful flavors of black teas, green teas, oolongs and scented/herbal teas, you'll understand why tea is consumed by more people worldwide than any other drink except water. Click here to purchase.
The New Tea Companion: A Guide to Teas Throughout the World, by Jane Pettigrew. The definitive guide to teas throughout the world. Beautifully illustrated with detailed information and brewing instructions for over 80 teas. Chapters on tea and health, tea production, tea blending and tea hospitality. Overall, a valuable up-to-date addition to the libraries of both tea novices and professionals. Click here to purchase.
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