Welcome to Modern Tea Culture

This has been a long time coming. I’ve had writer’s block for years, but something shifted when I visited Vietnam last year. The words started to flow out of me then, and now they’re pouring out again. As I write, I’m filled with both nostalgia and excitement. This journal is not just a blog; it’s the continuation of a journey that began many years ago when I first inhaled the sweet, rich aroma of black tea. Those early moments, sipping my first cups at my grandparents' farm in upstate New York, left a lasting impression—one that has shaped my life and ultimately led to the creation of Admari Brands.

Admari was born from a vision that tea was more than just a beverage; it is a way of life. In 2007, I opened the doors to my first brick-and-mortar tea store in Northern New Jersey—a beautiful beginning that has grown into something far greater than I ever imagined. The name Admari is a tribute to my family—derived from letters in my own name and the names of my parents, Maryann and Richard. What started as a family affair has blossomed into a brand that embodies my passion for tea and my commitment to quality, connection, and community.

Just as a tree grows and its branches reach out to new horizons, this blog represents new growth—a place where the roots of my past intertwine with the present. Here, I’ll share the thoughts, ideas, and materials that are shaping my upcoming literary projects. My goal is to connect with you on a deeper level, offering not just insights into the what, but the why of the world of tea. I strive to reflect the path I’ve walked with Admari, the tea knowledge I’ve gained over many years, and the stories that have led me to this moment.

What You’ll Find Here
Modern Tea Culture is an exploration of the complex and ever-evolving world of tea. Here are a few of the topics we’ll delve into:

Tea & Botanicals |
Dive deep into the world of tea and botanicals with detailed explorations of tea types, tea styles, tea origin stories, and more.

Tea Regions |

We’ll journey to the origins of different teas, traveling to tea-growing regions and uncovering the stories behind the leaves, along with the rich cultures of the people who produce them.

Tea Mixology |
From technical knowledge and innovative recipes to exploring Tea Mixology across the globe, we’ll dive into how tea is used not only in beverages but also in culinary creations.

Tea Rituals |
We’ll explore both ancient traditions and modern interpretations, celebrating the rituals that make tea a special part of our lives.

Tea People |
Meet the passionate individuals who dedicate their lives to tea, from growers and producers to tea drinkers and enthusiasts.

Welcome to a place where we can explore, learn, and share tea together. Thank you for joining me on this path.

In Service of the Leaf,
Adrienne

Adrienne Etkin

Adrienne Etkin is the founder of Admari Brands and a passionate tea person with a rich background in hospitality and beverage culture. Introduced to tea by her grandmothers, Adrienne's love of the leaf deepened as she navigated the world of hospitality, eventually opening her first tea shop in 2007. Her journey is marked by a deep spiritual connection to tea, influenced by her experiences with yoga. Through Modern Tea Culture, Adrienne explores tea’s history, culture, and evolving rituals.

https://admaritea.com
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