A tea sommelier is a trained professional specializing in the selection, preparation, and presentation of tea.

Similar to a wine sommelier, a tea sommelier possesses extensive knowledge of tea varieties, origins, processing methods, and brewing techniques. Their expertise is utilized in various settings, including restaurants, hotels, tea houses, and retail establishments, where they guide customers in choosing teas that complement meals or suit individual preferences.

Core Responsibilities

The primary duties of a tea sommelier encompass:

Tea Selection and Curation: Developing and managing a diverse tea menu that reflects quality, seasonality, and regional characteristics.

Brewing and Presentation: Mastering brewing techniques to ensure optimal flavor extraction and aesthetic presentation.

Customer Guidance: Assisting patrons in selecting teas that align with their taste preferences or pair well with specific dishes.

Staff Training: Educating team members on tea varieties, brewing methods, and service standards to maintain consistency and quality.

Inventory Management: Overseeing the procurement and storage of teas to preserve freshness and quality.

Training and Certification

Becoming a tea sommelier typically involves formal education and certification.

Although we do not directly recommend any of these companies, there are several institutions out there which offer structured programs such as:

World Tea Academy: Provides a Certified Tea Sommelier™ program requiring completion of advanced courses covering topics like cupping, brewing techniques, and tea culture.

International Tea Masters Association (ITMA): Offers a two-month Certified Tea Sommelier Course™, focusing on tea evaluation, blending, and global tea business practices.

International Tea Academy: Conducts immersive training in Pu’er, China, combining theoretical study with hands-on experience in tea fields and factories.

These programs aim to equip individuals with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills essential for professional tea service.

Career Opportunities

Tea sommeliers find employment in various sectors:

Hospitality Industry: Working in upscale restaurants and hotels to enhance guest experiences through curated tea offerings.

Retail and Wholesale: Managing tea selections in specialty stores or advising on product development and sourcing.

Education and Consultancy: Conducting workshops, tastings, and training sessions for both consumers and industry professionals.

Product Development: Collaborating with companies to create new tea blends or improve existing products.

The role of a tea sommelier is integral to promoting tea appreciation and ensuring high standards in tea service across various platforms.