Discover the unique story of Camellia sinensis in the Willamette Valley! This class explores the history of tea cultivation in our region, what makes the Valley’s climate and soils a distinctive terroir for producing high-quality tea, and how local growers are shaping the next chapter of Willamette Valley tea. We’ll also look ahead to the promising future of tea agriculture here, from expanding plantings to emerging styles and possibilities for growers and enthusiasts alike.
Join Gavin of Minto Island Tea, one of the region’s pioneering growers, for a lively and insightful session.
Date: Sunday, January 18th
Time: 11:00am - 12:30pm
Location: Zoom*
*Zoom link will be sent approximately 24 hours prior to class
We want to make sure that everyone who wants to attend this class is able to. Please consider "paying it forward" by purchasing an additional ticket if you feel called to and are able. If you would like to attend, but cannot afford a ticket, please reach out to inquire about available "Pay it forward" tickets.
History and Terroir of Camellia Sinensis in the Willamette Valley (January 18th)
Gavin McFarlane is a tea grower and teamaker specializing in small-batch, artisanal production. He leads tea cultivation and processing at Minto Island Tea Company in the Willamette Valley, where he focuses on sustainable, organic methods and craft-level production of green, white, and black teas.
Gavin’s interest in Camellia sinensis has taken him to Japan, where he studied and worked with traditional Japanese tea-growing and manufacturing practices. His time in Japan strengthened his technical understanding of harvesting, steaming, rolling, and oxidation techniques, which continue to influence his work today.
At Minto Island Tea, Gavin leads field management, seasonal harvesting, and small-scale processing, and regularly shares his expertise through workshops, tours, and educational programs.
Please note as all classes/events go to support the continued outreach of TeaFestPDX, refunds will not be provided. If you are unable to attend, you may gift your ticket to another person.