Objective Effect of configuration of a teacup on the sensory perception of the brewed Mt. Wuyi Dahongpao Tea was analyzed.

Method Taste and aroma of the tea as affected by 5 differently shaped cups made of same material were evaluated by a sensory panel of varied age and gender groups. The single factor variance statistical method and fuzzy set/qualitative comparative analysis (Fs/QCA) were applied for data comparison.

Result The young panelists were significantly more sensitive to the strength and richness of the brewed tea, while the older members to the umami and aroma. And the male panelists showed significantly more keen on the strength and richness of tea flavor than the female counterparts (P<0.001). Taller teacups with smaller diameters tended to accentuate the sensory perception of Dahongpao tea more than those of different shapes.

Conclusion It appeared that a thin-and-tall cup would benefit the drinker, especially the young and male, in appreciating the exquisite quality of the famed Mt. Wuyi Dahongpao Tea.