The High Commission of Sri Lanka in London, jointly with the Darwin College Tea Society of Cambridge University and the International Tea Committee (ITC) in the UK, conducted a Ceylon tea tasting and awareness session on 01 March 2025 at the historic Darwin Hall of the Darwin College. The programme was held under the theme of the Darwin College Tea Society: “Travel with Tea”, as part of the society’s annual cultural promotion activities.
President of the Darwin College Tea Society, Agustina Villalba, together with Treasurer Kui Li, worked closely with Minister (Commercial) of the High Commission of Sri Lanka in London, Somasena Mahadiulwewa and Executive Director of the ITC-UK, Suranga James Perera to organize the tea tasting evening.
Executive Director Mr. Perera who is also a professional tea taster and tea tutor at the UK Tea Academy with a wealth of experience in the Ceylon tea trade and tea tasting, has career track records with leading tea brokers and as the CEO of the Ceylon tea brokers in 2010. He conducted the tasting session which was attended by around 35 participants, the majority of whom were post-graduate students of Cambridge University. The programme included a presentation conducted by him, screening Ceylon tea videos by Sri Lanka Tea Board, and a serving of 04 varieties of specialty Ceylon teas with Sri Lankan ginger cookies and other delicacies.
During the session, the participants explored the rich history and diversity of Ceylon tea with 07 regional varieties and a range of flavors, along with its overall industry and economic aspects, cultural significance and the health benefits. They enjoyed tasting the exquisite Ceylon teas whilst having vibrant discussions about the art of professional tea brewing and the subtleties that make each cup unique. The participants who represented different parts of the world mentioned that the session was an eye-opening experience for them.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
London
10 March 2025
