About this Event
Discover the art, ritual, and flavor of traditional tea cultures during The Spirit of Tea, a guided tasting experience led by tea educator LaMonte Heflick.
Guests will sample natural loose-leaf teas from Japan and China, including green, oolong, and black teas, while learning time-honored brewing techniques and cultural traditions. The experience will feature demonstrations using both a Japanese kyusu (side-handle teapot) and Chinese gōngfū chá (small-pot brewing method), offering insight into how preparation influences flavor and aroma.
This relaxed, educational tasting is designed to be welcoming and engaging — no prior tea knowledge required.
What’s Included
- Guided tasting of multiple loose-leaf teas
- Live brewing demonstrations
- Introduction to traditional Japanese and Chinese tea methods
- Time for questions and discussion
Your Host
LaMonte Heflick is a Certified Saké Professional (ASP – Saké Education Council) and lifelong tea enthusiast. He has presented and served tea for schools, botanical gardens, restaurants, tea houses, and cultural organizations throughout Indiana, Michigan, and Taiwan. LaMonte previously lived and worked in Japan at Toyota Motor Corporation and taught introductory Japanese and Chinese language courses before retiring as a speech-language pathologist.
Event Details
📅 Sunday, January 18, 2026
🕒 3:00 PM
💵 $25 per person
📍 The Spice & Tea Exchange® of Valparaiso
🎟️ Limited seating. Advance registration required.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
161 W Lincolnway, 161 West Lincolnway, Valparaiso, United States
USD 28.52
