What’s that comforting, awakening ritual that kicks off so many mornings? It’s tea! Today, on International Tea Day, we celebrate more than just a beverage; we honour a global culture, a moment of solace, and a symbol of connection across continents.
The world of tea offers an enchanting journey of flavours. Beyond robust spiced varieties, palates now delight in delicate fruity and fragrant flowery infusions. Enthusiasts are spoilt for choice: vibrant green, soothing chamomile, fiery spices, and pure organic blends. India, a true powerplay, boasts iconic growers from Assam to Darjeeling, producing high-profile brands.
To fully embrace this global celebration, TheGlitz has thoughtfully listed select tea brands, the cosiest spots to savour your perfect cuppa, and even a unique gin cocktail infused with Darjeeling tea. Brew, sip, and enjoy!
Cheers To International Tea Day!
TEA CULTURE OF THE WORLD
Let’s honor Tea Culture of The World, a brand that has transformed since 2010 from respecting tea’s medicinal heritage into mastering the art of exceptional tea craftsmanship.
With an impressive collection of 120 exquisite flavors, the brand sources hand-plucked leaves from renowned tea regions across Japan, China, Vietnam, South Africa, and India. Catering to health-conscious consumers, luxury gift seekers, and passionate tea enthusiasts, they offer premium teas alongside elegant gift collections suitable for homes, luxury hotels, and sophisticated cafes.
Their commitment extends beyond quality to ethical sourcing through Fairtrade-certified producers, ensuring sustainable practices, fair wages, and community development. What sets them apart is their innovative freeze-drying process that preserves nutritional value, flavor profiles, and natural herbal oils, delivering consistently superior blends year-round.
On this special day celebrating global tea culture, Tea Culture of The World exemplifies how traditional tea appreciation can evolve into a modern, ethical, and innovative tea experience that honors both heritage and sustainability.
SOCIETY TEA
On International Tea Day, we celebrate Society Tea‘s remarkable journey that began in 1915 when Amarshi Bhurabhai Shah laid the foundation for what would become a cornerstone of India’s tea industry. With Hasmukhrai & Co. established in 1933, this century-long legacy now thrives under the fourth generation of Shahs, each carrying forward an unwavering passion for tea craftsmanship.
This dedication to the art of tea-making has created the consistent, distinctive taste that defines Society Tea among its devoted customers. What distinguishes the brand is its steadfast commitment to delivering superior tea experiences through every cup. Their diverse product range showcases this versatility, including ventures into Instant Tea that maintains the same exceptional flavour while offering modern convenience.
Society Tea continues its mission to provide India and the world with the finest tea experiences, staying true to its heritage while embracing innovation.
Berry Matcha Bubble Tea at Burma Burma Kolkata
Spiced Apricot Artisanal Iced Tea
Spiced Apricot, a tasteful amalgamation of smoked oolong kombucha, roasted red chilli and local Burmese pickled apricots.
Chamomile Flowers at Yauatcha
Specially hand-picked from Fujian province of China, each Chamomile flower is cautiously selected and dried with care. This pleasantly aromatic tea is caffeine free with relaxing properties. Delicate, naturally sweet and soothing.
Watermelon Iced Tea at Bonne Femme
A refreshing blend of brewed tea infused with the flavour of watermelon. Lightly sweetened and served chilled, it’s the perfect balance of fruit and tea—cool, crisp, and bursting with summery goodness.
Chamomile Tea at Somersault x Poach
A soothing herbal infusion, has delicate floral aroma and calming effect. Naturally caffeine-free, it’s the perfect brew to help relax and unwind
Discover the Elegance of ‘Afternoon Tea’ at Tess, Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata
Celebrating International Tea Day on May 21st, Tess at Hyatt Centric Ballygunge presents a week-long Afternoon Tea Experience from May 18th-25th, starting 3 PM daily. This contemporary take on traditional high tea features vibrant flavors and artisanal treats designed for leisurely afternoons.
Guests can choose between two elegantly crafted tasting platters. The vegetarian option showcases tofu bao buns and creamy avocado sourdough toasties, while the non-vegetarian selection offers Sichuan chicken bao buns with avocado toast. Both platters conclude with three decadent desserts: Belgian chocolate pastry, banana tea cake, and Biscoff cheesecake.
Celebrate Tea and Tradition with Jin Jiji
This International Tea Day, Jin Jiji – the award-winning Indian Dry Gin from Uttarakhand – raises a toast to tea, the ritual that connects India, from misty Darjeeling plantations to every local chai stall.
Celebrating tea as comfort, culture, and community, Jin Jiji brings its spirit to the global stage. Infused with premium Darjeeling FTGFOP1 tea from the renowned Jungpana estate, it’s slow-distilled in copper stills with a blend of botanicals like chamomile, orris root, and Himalayan juniper.
The result? A gin that captures the layered essence of Indian tea traditions in every pour.
Darjeeling Whisperer
Ingredients:
- 60ml Jin Jiji Darjeeling
- 30ml Darjeeling tea
- 15ml Pandan Cordial
- 10ml Citric
- Soda to top up
- Garnish with pandan leaf
Making procedure:
Shake all ingredients except soda with ice. Strain into a highball glass over ice. Top up with soda.
Cover image by Kellice Chua
