TEA
My appreciation for the art of tea began as a natural extension of my culinary voyages—a quest not just for flavor, but for connection to the subtleties of nature and craft. Tea, like fine dining, is a celebration of time, place, and the transformative qualities of ingredients. As I explored non-alcoholic pairings at fine dining restaurants, I discovered how the delicate complexity of teas could complement and elevate dishes in ways I hadn't imagined.
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Thus the world of tea commenced to fascinate me, offering a deeper sensory experience rooted in the wisdom of ancient traditions. The more I immersed myself in the plant-based infusions, the more I came to understand their magic—the way each leaf, each flower, and each herb tells its own story, evolving with every steeping. The intricate balance of flavors—from the grassy brightness of a green tea to the earthy depth of a puerh—became a language I could speak in tandem with the kitchen.
Tea is not just a beverage; it is a narrative. Each infusion is a living experience that evolves and reveals new dimensions, just as a well-crafted dish does. My exploration of these teas has been as much about the subtleties of nature as it is about the joy of discovery—a journey that continues to inspire and deepen my appreciation for the plants that provide the essence of this magical art.
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Kwok Ying von Beuningen
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My journey into the world of tea was deeply enriched when I met Tea Sommelière Kwon Ying von Beuningen, whose expertise and passion for the craft opened new dimensions in my understanding of tea. Graciously, she agreed to mentor me, guiding me through the intricate art of tea selection, brewing techniques, and the delicate interplay of flavors.
Together, we created several unique tea-related events, including the Cigar and Tea Harmony Test, and she was an essential support on my quest to holding the very first Tea Gathering in the traditional Tea House at Samurai Museum, since Kwok Ying had not only introduced me to the esteemed Japanese tea master, Atsuko Sōto Isoyama-Osiander, but also co-coordinated the event and welcomed all Museum's guests with a beautifully curated selection of teas.
The Tea Gathering at Samurai Museum has been welcomed with such appreciation, that this captivating journey into Japanese culture returns as a series of events in 2025.
In the meantime, Kwok Ying and I are focusing on a new project: exclusive Tea Gatherings at another private museum. Dedicated to celebrating quiet reflection, mindfulness, and contemplative stillness, this space will serve as the perfect setting for these special ceremonies.
Atsuko Sōto Isoyama-Osiander
& Aleksandra Luxburg at Samurai Museum
Fot. by Nils Rüstmann