The Story Behind Afternoon Tea

The art of afternoon tea and its surrounding culture dates back to Victorian society. Tea transformed from being just a beverage to a social and cultural phenomenon. The afternoon tea we know of today was first introduced by the Duchess of Bedford. It entailed the practice of serving exquisite teas with a variety of delicacies. Did you know that the reason we pour tea into the teacup before the milk is to ensure the fine China would not crack from the heat of the milk. The rituals and practices from the Victorian age still prevail in tea cultures across the globe.

Afternoon tea was governed by strict and well-established tea etiquette. Everything from the brewing of the tea and how it was served, to the act of tea drinking had accepted rituals. Everything from the selection of the tea blends that were served, the presentation of the delicacies, and the act of hosting an afternoon tea – is an art. Hence, it is a concept that requires an elevated selection, taste, and brew of tea. Hence, unlike today, during Victorian England, afternoon tea was privy solely to society’s elite.

Tea, as we know, is a social drink, however, many overlook the role of tea in empowering women during the Victorian era. Afternoon tea was a space where women could socialize, express their opinions, and engage in intellectual discussions. Additionally, the art of brewing, serving, and hosting tea was a highly regarded refined and feminine skill. Thus, tea became a symbol of women’s influence and authority in society.