The Programme....

Welcome to my China blog.
I'm a tea specialist and enthusiast, sourcing rare teas on behalf of Fortnum & Mason in London. They are the most famous food shop in the UK, and pride themselves on stocking a range of the world's finest teas. My job is to select the range, comprising classic varieties and much rarer types that are uniquely available in the F&M store.
I'm leaving for China tomorrow, and the programme is still a bit "temporary". I know where I'm going, but not exactly in what order or what form of transport. It all adds to the sense of discovery.
During the trip I'm expecting to see Dancong Oolongs, Long Jing, Pi Lo Chun, Keemun, Huo Shan Huang Ya, Liu An Gua Pian, and Anji Baicha. If some of the names are unfamiliar all will become clearer during the next two weeks. Anji Baicha is of particular interest because it is only picked on a single day each year, depending on the weather. Last year it was April 11th, so I might be lucky.
One of the key objectives of the trip is to find some especially interesting and unusual signature teas for F&M. Last year I found them a very rare 2002 Purple Leaf Puer cake, which they have just sold for £3000. It shows that people attach great value to rarity and quality, which is very motivating for me.