How do you choose gaiwan?

Selecting a gaiwan, a traditional Chinese lidded bowl used for infusing tea leaves, involves considering several factors to suit your tea brewing needs and personal preferences. Here are key aspects to keep in mind:

1. Material:

   • Porcelain: Widely used, good for beginners, and suitable for a variety of teas. It has excellent heat retention and doesn’t absorb flavors.
   • Glass: Ideal for watching the tea leaves unfold, best for delicate teas like green or white tea.
   • Clay: Retains heat well and can enhance the flavor of certain teas, similar to Yixing teapots. It's more suitable for experienced users.

2. Size:

   • Gaiwans typically range from 100 to 150 milliliters (3.4 to 5 ounces). Smaller ones are good for high-quality, expensive teas brewed in small quantities. Larger ones can be used for less concentrated brews or when serving multiple people.

3. Ease of Handling:

   • Consider the shape and how it feels in your hands. The gaiwan should be easy to hold and pour, without the lid slipping or the edges being too hot to touch.
   • Some have flared rims or are designed to be more ergonomic, making them easier to handle.

4. Lid Fit:

   • The lid should fit well to trap the aroma and heat, but it should also slide a bit to allow for pouring and aeration.

5. Aesthetics:

   • Choose a design that appeals to you. Gaiwans come in various colors, patterns, and styles, ranging from simple and elegant to ornate and colorful.

6. Purpose:

   • If you're using the gaiwan for sensory evaluation or to appreciate the color of the tea, a white porcelain or glass gaiwan is ideal.
   • For everyday use, a more durable material or a design that you personally like would be preferable.

7. Quality:

   • Check for any cracks, imperfections, or irregularities. A good quality gaiwan will have a smooth finish and be free of defects.

8. Price:

   • Set a budget. Gaiwans can range from very affordable to quite expensive for artisanal pieces. Price often correlates with the quality of the craftsmanship and the material used.

When choosing a gaiwan, it's often a balance between functionality, aesthetics, and how it feels in your hands. It’s also about personal preference, as the gaiwan becomes a personal tool in your tea brewing experience. Experimenting with different types can also be part of the enjoyment and learning process in tea brewing.