Tea & Origami Workshop: A Japanese Tea Experience

Join us for a relaxed and engaging afternoon exploring the beauty of traditional Japanese tea.

In this guided tasting, you’ll enjoy four distinctive loose-leaf teas while learning about the history, preparation, and flavor profiles that make Japanese tea culture so special.

During the workshop we will taste:

Koucha (紅茶) – Japanese black tea brewed in a traditional kyusu side-handle teapot
Hojicha (ほうじ茶) – roasted green tea prepared in a houroku roasting pot
Fukamushi Sencha (深むし煎茶) – a deeply steamed Japanese green tea known for its rich flavor and vibrant color
Genmaicha (玄米茶) – a comforting blend of green tea and toasted brown rice

Guests will also enjoy a small tasting plate featuring a delicate finger sandwich and matcha shortbread while learning a simple origami fold inspired by Japanese craft and culture.

This workshop is designed to be relaxed, welcoming, and a wonderful introduction to the traditions of Japanese tea.

Saturday, April 11
$35 per guest

LaMonte Heflick is a Certified Saké Professional (ASP – Saké Education Council) and lifelong tea enthusiast. He has presented and served tea for schools, botanical gardens, restaurants, tea houses, and cultural organizations throughout Indiana, Michigan, and Taiwan.

LaMonte previously lived and worked in Japan at Toyota Motor Corporation and later taught introductory Japanese and Chinese language courses before retiring as a speech-language pathologist.

📅 Saturday, April 11, 2026
🕒 2:00 PM
💵 $35 per person
📍 The Spice & Tea Exchange® of Valparaiso

🎟️ Limited seating. Advance registration required.

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