About the competition

Tea Inspiration for the 21st Century - Ti21 - is a global contest designed by Ceylon Tea growing family Dilmah, to express the natural sophistication and taste in fine tea through gastronomy and mixology. TI21 challenges Chefs, Sommeliers and Tea Aficionados to present the unique goodness in tea as well as the fingerprint of nature that are both beautifully expressed in the terroir in handcrafted Tea. It is a demanding challenge that tests the skills of every contestant with the emphasis on respect for tea while requiring expertise in understanding tea as a herbal beverage, as a complement to food, and as an ingredient in mixology and gastronomy. The contest is exacting in its emphasis on crafting a contemporary, tea inspired experience that honours the seven dimensions on which the contest is judged, including Sustainability, Cultural context, Heritage and of course Taste. Tea Inspiration for the 21st Century is the evolution of the revolution in tea that Dilmah sparked through its pioneering Real High Tea Challenge; that contest involved 710 contestants in 14 countries and challenged dated concepts of afternoon tea. TI21 continues that spirit in taking the message of great Taste, natural Goodness and ethical Purpose in fine tea, to a new generation with 21st Century style.

This is one of the leading tea competitions in the world which aims to celebrate Dilmah Afternoon Tea culture in style.