Tea Time with Noritake: The Perfect Cup for Every Mood

In Sri Lanka, tea is more than just a drink—it is an experience, a symbol of hospitality, and a connection to centuries of tradition.

As December brings more guests home, it’s the perfect time to embrace the art of tea rituals! From the robust flavours of Ceylon black tea to the soothing qualities of herbal infusions, every cup tells a story of the island's lush landscapes and rich history.

Tea is a cornerstone of Sri Lankan identity, deeply woven into the fabric of daily life. Offering a guest a cup of tea is considered a gesture of warmth and respect.

Morning tea provides a gentle start to the day, while afternoon tea breaks are opportunities to pause and connect.

Beyond social customs, tea also plays a role in health and wellness. Spiced teas infused with ginger or cinnamon are believed to aid digestion, while green and white teas offer antioxidant properties. The ritual of tea drinking is as much about nourishment as it is about relaxation.

A Guide to Sri Lankan Teas

Ceylon Black Tea: Ceylon black tea is Sri Lanka’s most famous export, known for its bold flavour and rich amber colour. Grown at various elevations, the taste profile can range from brisk and citrusy to deep and malty. It pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory accompaniments, making it ideal for holiday gatherings or quiet moments by the window.

Ceylon Green Tea: A lighter alternative, Ceylon green tea is prized for its delicate, slightly grassyflavourr. It is rich in antioxidants and offers a refreshing change to heavier black teas. Drinking green tea is often associated with rejuvenation and inner calm, perfect for reflecting on the year ahead.

White Tea (Silver Tips): The rarest and most luxurious of Sri Lankan teas, white tea is made from young buds that are carefully handpicked. Known as “Silver Tips,” this tea undergoes minimal processing, preserving its subtle, floral notes. It is a tea for special occasions, a celebration of purity and simplicity.

Spiced and Herbal Infusions: Sri Lankan households often brew herbal infusions with native spices like cardamom, clove, and cinnamon. Ginger tea, for example, is a popular remedy for colds, while coriander seed infusions soothe digestion. These infusions reflect the island's deep connection to Ayurveda and natural healing.

How You Can Use Noritake Teaware

Noritake’s porcelain teaware adds elegance and sophistication to the tea-drinking experience. Known for their timeless designs and craftsmanship, Noritake tea sets are both functional and beautiful, embodying the fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics.

Morning Rejuvenation: Begin your day with a cup of Ceylon green tea served in Noritake’s sleek and modern cups from the Glacier Platinum collection. The clean design allows the vibrancolouror of the tea to shine through.

Afternoon Pause: Host an afternoon tea for friends and family with Noritake’s Bountiful Garden set. Serve bold Ceylon black tea alongside delicate pastries and finger foods.

Evening Wind Down: End the day with a soothing herbal infusion in the Nortiake Golden Breeze teacups. The act of brewing tea slowly, with attention to detail, signals the mind to unwind and relax.