
About this episode
Elite tea tasters can detect minute differences in aroma, taste, mouthfeel, and aftertaste, but few are supertasters; instead, they are masters of association, disciplined to use precise, industry-accepted terms in their evaluations. The best develop deep practical knowledge that bridges production, procurement, and marketing, combining base teas to achieve consistent taste profiles across batches and seasons without compromising quality.
Sebastian Michaelis, Head of Tea at Tata Consumer Products, where he oversees the Tetley brand, joins Tea Biz for a fascinating and insightful conversation about the joys and challenges of tasting thousands of teas weekly for over 20 years.
BIO: Sebastian Michaelis is the Head of Tea for the International division of Tata Consumer Products. A renowned tea expert with a 20-year career in the tea trade, he has spent a significant portion of his career based in Kenya, Malawi, and India. He oversees sourcing, supply chain, and product development for the Tetley brand. He has worked extensively with the Ethical Tea Partnership, Rainforest Alliance, and other collaborators to support a thriving, socially just, and environmentally sustainable tea sector, emphasizing sustainable sourcing and responsible tea practices.
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