What Makes A Good Teapot?

Here are the questions to ask when purchasing a teapot for fine tea brewing:

- Does pot leave room for leaves to open up?
- Does its opening allowing easy cleaning?
- Does shape allow for adequate leaf circulation?
- Does it have a good strainer attached?
- Does shape offer easy pouring and standing?

Strainers are rather important parts of a teapot because they determine how well the tealeaves open up to get the most aroma, taste and color out during the brewing process. With the right preparation, the same tea leaves can be infused for a great cup of tea 2-3 times. Strainer types also determine how easily a pot can be cleaned after use.

Strainer Types:

Container:	Description
Obi-Ami	A stainless mesh strainer is attached all over inside the wall of the pot.
Ita-Ami	A stainless mesh board is attached to the inside of the pot at the exit of the water through the spout.
Sasame	In order to preserve the delicate taste of green tea a mesh board was incorporated as part of the teapot. This new ceramic technology is best for Fukamushi-cha -- extra special steamed tea.
Kago Ami	A removable stainless steel basket inside the teapot. Easy to use but it may limit room for the leaves to open up. Choose the pot with a wide opening. The wide basket gives the leaves more room to open up.