It has been announced that the first World Tea Championship will be held at the World Tea Expo this year in Las Vegas, Nevada. The expo is being held from May 30 through June 1.

Just like we now have with wines, they will give the competing teas a World Tea Rating. Since, like wine, so much of the quality of a tea depends upon growing conditions such as the weather and soil and the skill of the tea masters and blenders, it is hoped that this rating system will bring “increased awareness and consumer understanding”. The lucky industry and media participants will receive a World Tea Buyers Guide which will list the ratings of all the entries into the new World Tea Championship.

The hot tea class will have 24 categories with three super categories while the iced tea class will be divided into three categories which are set by how they are marketed or sold. These categories are ready-to-drink, food service and freestyle. If you happen to be a member of the industry that attends the expo, please consider writing a small report for us here.

Source: http://www.bevnet.com/news/2008/2-28-2008-World_Tea_Championship.asp