As the weather begins to cool down in Manitoba, it’s the perfect time to relax under a blanket with a nice hot cup of tea.

Although tea is a classic cold-weather drink, it’s also so much more than that. For some, it is a necessary part of their daily ritual, and for others, it plays an important role in their cultural traditions.

“It’s thousands of years old and very rich in history…it has been the subject of romances and empires falling into conflict,” said tea researcher and tea sommelier Denyse Waissbluth.

A cup of tea and tea in China. (Source: Denyse Waissbluth)

Tea is also a beverage with many health benefits.

Shabnam Weber, president of the Canadian Tea and Herbal Association, explained that tea is full of vitamins and minerals.

She added that the flavonoids in tea, also found in fruits and vegetables, are responsible for the main health benefits.

Tea also has positive attributes when it comes to hydration, cardiovascular health, boosting the immune system, and maintaining bone health.

“It’s good for your body; it’s good for your skin; it’s good for your mind. It’s relaxing,” she said.

“There is a mountain of evidence demonstrating all the health benefits that can be gained from a good cup of tea,” Weber said.

Teapots at an antique market in China. (Source: Denyse Waissbluth)

Popularity of tea

Beyond its many benefits, tea is also a very popular drink. In fact, it is the second most consumed beverage in the world, after water.

Waissbluth, who is also the author of “Teatime Around the World,” said this is partly because tea is accessible, adding that many countries have found ways to incorporate it into their cultural customs.

“You don’t have to have a lot of money to enjoy it or to use it as a way to host people,” she says.

“I think it’s because of a lot of these factors that make it such a popular drink.”

Tea prepared in a house in China. (Source: Denyse Waissbluth)

As for the type of tea popular in Canada, Weber said Canadians tend to align with the British and drink a lot of black tea.

“We tend to like our black tea stronger because we like to put milk and some sort of sweetener in it. Honey is the number one sweetener for tea drinkers, which is interesting,” she said.

Different uses around the world

All over the world, tea is consumed in a variety of ways.

In Japan, Japanese tea ceremonies are practiced, while in England, afternoon tea is popular.

In India, there is chaiwala, which means tea seller. Waissbluth said these were makeshift stalls where people would sell their teas with special spices in clay cups.

In Singapore, there is Teh Tarik, which means drawn tea. Waissbluth explained that it’s basically condensed milk with strong black tea poured from a high cup to a low cup.

“You get this really creamy, frothy tea that’s so deliciously sweet,” she said.

A modern tea room where the waiter prepares cold Matcha tea in Japan. (Source: Denyse Waissbluth)

Weber said tea, as well as other foods and drinks, are prepared in a way that tells a story. She added that it was also a way to bring people together.

“I would say with tea, but with any meal it’s really hard to be angry or upset when you have a cup of tea in your hand or when you’re gathered with someone for a meal,” she declared.

“So it’s a really unifying, warm and welcoming atmosphere.

A tea with a touch of originality

For those looking to have a delicious cup of tea in Winnipeg, the Fairmont offers an experience like no other at its Velvet Glove Restaurant.

Every Sunday the hotel hosts an afternoon tea, with sandwiches, sweets and premium teas.

But there’s a twist: Fairmont Winnipeg’s theme is the High Tea Experience, with a new theme starting every six weeks. Currently the theme is Mad Hatter, but on November 17 it will change to The Nutcracker.

“It’s not just about the name of the theme; it’s all about presentation,” said Ksenia Stegnii, Fairmont Winnipeg venue manager.

“So our beautiful artisan treats and savory items are personalized with the theme, so they have little details about the occasion.”

Stegnii described the tea experience at Fairmont as a “secret gathering of generations,” noting that grandmothers, mothers and daughters tend to come together.

“(It’s) time that you can just have a nice cup of tea together…have that experience with your friends and family,” she said.

“I think it’s just the warm feeling of starting your Sunday afternoon with a cup of tea and good times with family and friends.”