The Changing Traditions of Drinking Tea in Thailand

When it comes to tea culture and traditions in Thailand, much remains consistent over time. However, understanding what's new and different provides valuable context. Let's delve into the fascinating world of Thai tea.

Traditional Tea Culture in Thailand

1. Ancient Tea Trees:

Ancient tea trees are tea plants that are hundreds of years old, some even reaching over 3,000 years old! They are primarily found in Yunnan Province, China, which is where most pu-erh tea comes from.

There is some debate about the exact age that qualifies a tea tree as "ancient," with some saying it's 100 years and others saying it's 300 years. Regardless of the exact cutoff, these trees are much older than the typical commercially cultivated tea plants, which are usually just a few years old.

2. Types of Tea:

Ancient tea trees are most commonly used to produce pu-erh tea, a dark, fermented tea with a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. Pu-erh tea is prized for its complex flavor profile, which can range from earthy and mushroomy to sweet and fruity, depending on the age of the tea and the processing method used. Unlike most teas, which are best enjoyed soon after they are produced, pu-erh tea can be aged for many years, similar to fine wine. This aging process allows the tea to develop even richer and more nuanced flavors.

There are two main types of pu-erh tea: sheng pu-erh and shou pu-erh. Sheng pu-erh tea, also known as "raw" pu-erh, is unfermented and undergoes a natural aging process. As it ages, sheng pu-erh tea develops a smoother, more mellow flavor and aroma, with notes of earth, wood, and even fruit. Shou pu-erh tea, also known as "cooked" pu-erh, undergoes an accelerated fermentation process that gives it a stronger, earthier flavor and aroma right from the start. This fermentation process also makes shou pu-erh tea more shelf-stable than sheng pu-erh tea.

Ancient tea trees can also be used to produce other types of tea, such as black tea, green tea, and white tea. However, these teas are much less common and can be quite expensive.

3. Old-Style Thai Tea:

- In older parts of Bangkok, you can still find black tea served with sweetened condensed milk, brewed using a cloth bag resembling a small windsock. This nostalgic style is akin to Malaysia's "teh tarik."
- Locals cherish this traditional way of preparing and enjoying tea.

Evolving Tastes and Preferences

1. Bubble Tea Boom:

- Around a decade ago, bubble tea gained immense popularity. This milk and sugar-laden tea, often paired with tapioca pearls, originated in Taiwan.
- Thai consumers embraced bubble tea, leading to its widespread availability in cafes and street stalls.

2. Matcha Craze:

- Matcha, the finely ground green tea from Japan, also found its way into Thai tea culture.
- Matcha lattes and desserts are now common in trendy cafes.

Flavored "Thai Tea"

1. Origins:

- Initially, Thai tea was flavored with crushed roasted tamarind seeds and orange blossoms. Over time, it evolved into the vibrant orange-colored Thai tea we know today, often artificially flavored.
- Street vendors continue to serve this iconic Thai tea.

2. Street Stalls and Carts: