Japan, China, Nepal, Taiwan, and India are just a few of the countries where John Wetzel sources his 300 varieties of tea, working directly with the growers.
At Stone Leaf Teahouse, located in Middlebury’s historic Marble Works district, fresh loose tea is steeped in a pottery teapot and served on a wooden tray. Each tea is tied to the culture from which it comes. Owner John Wetzel visits various tea farms in Asia to meet the tea growers and to learn their craft. He has even helped make tea with them. In Nepal, he has watched the process of hand-rolling the organic tea. This past year his 14-year-old son accompanied him on his tea journey to Taiwan.
John loves pouring tea and sharing his extensive knowledge with his patrons. His deep pride comes from forging a connection between the tea maker and the folks drinking it. Teas here have been harvested in many parts of our world including dark oolong, hand-rolled tea from Nepal; masala chai from India; green tea from Japan; and rooibos from South Africa—and all come with a story.
During the early 2000s, John wondered, where is the tea? Exploring numerous coffeehouses, he realized that teahouses were missing. After several farming stints in Chittenden and Addison counties, including one at Lincoln Peak Vineyard, his interest in tea grew. People kept asking him the same question: When was he going to open a tea shop? John shares, “In 2009, I found the perfect spot in the Marble Works building. Surrounded by stone, our teas age gracefully and are kept fresh.”
Japan, China, Nepal, Taiwan, and India are just a few of the countries where he sources his 300 varieties of tea, working directly with the growers. John prides himself on having a knowledgeable and helpful staff who guide you through a vast selection while you enjoy the ambiance.
What defines good tea? According to John, “The amount of the leaf, the size of the pot, steeping time, and the water temp all contribute to a good cup of tea. Teas here are grown with skill and care from families who have grown and processed tea for generations.” A favorite here is masala chai, an Indian drink served in a glass with spices and elegance.
A visit to Stone Leaf transports you to another place and time. Enjoy your tea outside nestled on the peaceful terrace, seated Japanese-style upstairs at the loft’s low tables, or in the teahouse amidst the tapestries and assorted tea wares available for purchase. Stone Leaf products are available at many local Vermont markets in the loose tea section.
