10:30 - 11:15 Miller Hall 2 - The Quiet Power of Oolong: Craft, Time, and Transformation (Jennifer Nowicki)
Oolong tea is shaped not by recipes, but by skilled hands, patience, and an intimate understanding of leaf and landscape. In this guided sampling, participants will explore how oxidation, bruising, roasting, and rest transform fresh leaf into complex, expressive teas. Through side-by-side tastings of carefully selected single-origin oolongs, guests will learn to recognize craftsmanship, terroir, and time in the cup.
This session is designed for curious tea drinkers who are comfortable with loose-leaf tea and ready to deepen their sensory and technical understanding, without requiring advanced industry training.
10:30 am -The Quiet Power of Oolong (Jennifer Nowicki)
Jennifer Nowicki is a certified tea specialist and founder of Cultivate Taste Tea, a Wisconsin-based company dedicated to pure, single-origin loose-leaf teas sourced through long-term, ethical relationships with small producers. With over three decades in the specialty food and tea industries, she personally evaluates each tea through professional tasting and on-site education. Her work emphasizes sustainability, transparency, and terroir; connecting environmental responsibility with sensory quality. Known for her thoughtful, experience-driven approach to tea education, Jennifer focuses on helping audiences understand how mindful sourcing and craftsmanship shape what we taste in the cup.
Please note that all ticket purchases are non-refundable. However, tickets may be transferred to another individual. If you plan to gift or transfer your class ticket, please email us with the new attendee’s full name. Education@teafestpdx.com