Glass lets the tea speak. A double-walled borosilicate tumbler keeps the temperature stable while showing every colour and layer in the cup: the pale gold of white tea, the vivid green of matcha, the slow unfurl of a jasmine pearl opening.
T2's glass and tumbler range covers double-walled everyday tumblers, the Contour Matcha Glass, and the Everyday Glass Gaiwan, a traditional Chinese vessel worth understanding properly.
Double-wall glass: what it is and how it works
Double-walled glass is two layers of borosilicate with a vacuum sealed between them. The outer wall stays cool to touch while the inner wall keeps the tea hot. The same insulation principle as a vacuum flask, but fully transparent. You get temperature retention without losing the visual of the brew. T2's Ribbed Double Walled Tumblers and Tea Now tumblers use this construction. They're suited to daily use at a desk or kitchen bench, and they work just as well for cold brew or iced tea.
What is a gaiwan and how do I use it?
The T2 Everyday Glass Gaiwan is a traditional Chinese brewing vessel used in gongfu-style brewing: a small lidded bowl that brews tea in multiple short infusions of 30 seconds to 2 minutes, with each infusion drawing out a different character from the same leaves. Where western teapot brewing produces one extraction, the gaiwan produces many, each one slightly different from the last.
The method is suited to oolongs, aged pu-erh, fine green teas, and white teas. The gaiwan is typically used together with the Gong Dao Bei, a small pitcher that decants the brew evenly before pouring. Both pieces are available in the traditional teaware collection.
FAQ
What is borosilicate glass?
Borosilicate glass contains boron trioxide, which significantly increases its resistance to thermal shock. It can handle the rapid temperature change of boiling water without cracking, which is why it's used in laboratory equipment and quality teaware. T2's glass range uses borosilicate throughout.
Are T2 tumblers suitable for iced tea and cold brew?
Yes. Double-walled tumblers keep cold drinks cold longer and prevent condensation on the outside. For cold brew, steep in the fridge for 6–8 hours, then pour directly into the tumbler.
What is the Contour Glass Matcha Tumbler?
The Contour Glass Matcha Tumbler is designed for drinking matcha: a wide-based borosilicate glass shaped to make whisking matcha directly in the vessel practical. The contoured base makes it easier to whisk in a W motion without spilling. See the matcha collection for matcha powders and preparation tools.
Free delivery on New Zealand orders $50 and above.
