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About Us
Dear Friend & Tea Lover,
Did you know there are more than 100 varieties of tea from just one tea
plant called Camellia sinensis? The secret lies in the different
manufacturing techniques, variations in climate and altitude, type of
soil, and the inherent characteristics of the tea plant.
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 The tea plant has two basic subdivisions -- China Jat
and White Jat. China Jat originated in China. It has a narrow dark
leaf and is associated with high flavor and low yields. White Jat
originated in the Assam province in India. It has a broad, less-dark
leaf and is associated with high yields and less flavor. By vegetative
propagation, many hybrids (clones) of these two subdivisions have been
produced, combining special characteristics and thereby improving the
quality of tea. Suffice it to say, that the production of high quality
tea is not a 'mechanized' art, but a human skill.
Picture to right: Award Winner - World Tea Expo 2004 |
 My name is Lalith Paranavitana. I am the sole proprietor of Empire Tea
Services. I have been associated with the tea industry for over 35
years. I was the Manager of Nuwara Eliya Tea Estate in Sri Lanka
(Ceylon) and a Director of the Sri Lanka State Plantations (Tea)
Corporation. This experience gave me literally a 'ground up' skill and
knowledge in cultivating, manufacturing, tasting, and blending tea.
In
addition, I have established the Empire Tea Services, which has
managed and operated the Victorian style Empire Tea Room, in the
Columbus Inn since 1990. I also commenced tea imports into this
country in 1991. |
My unique, experience and expertise, enables me to
appreciate and discern the various types of teas from around the globe and
provide you with a special selection of fine teas. I have no intention of
confusing you with 200 different types of teas. Further, with a limited
selection, I am able to offer fresh teas consistently! I have taken the
guesswork out of selecting teas and offer you the best value for your
money.
I am extremely happy to announce the creation of several new blends. These
teas, which are blended in small batches of less than 10 lbs and called
Micro blended teas, have proven themselves in my Tea Room and I now ask
you to be the judge.
I have also created a Tea Bag line called Tea Temptations. They are
packaged in foil envelopes for exceptional freshness. For more information
please click on this Tea Temptations link.
To round off the tea experience, I have included tea accessories, books on
tea and my very own Scone mix. A wide range of Tea Pots from England,
China and Japan are also available.
Tea is a romantic beverage and closely associated with historical and
mythological information. The tremendous spectrum of flavors found in tea
caters to everyone's needs. From varietals and herbals to flavored teas,
hot or iced, for young and old. Come and enjoy one of life's simple
pleasures. And remember to visit my Tea Room, if ever you happen to be in
Columbus, Indiana!
Lalith Paranavitana
President Empire Tea Services
Please feel free call us
at 1-800-790-0246 or use our
online form to contact us - we are here to help you.
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