my own GPT : The Chinese Teamaster

As some of you might know, I have been experimenting with creating my own GPTs. I have made 2 which are publicly available, one for generating quotes on a certain topic and one for spitting out prompts for images with Midjourney. One I'm still working on is the GPT called The Chinese Teamaster.

The goal of this GPT is to be your mentor in Chinese Tea and help you learn interactively about well known Chinese teas like Longjing, Pai Mu Tan, etc.

When I just have a conversation with chatGPT to act as a Chinese teamaster, the results are outstanding. However when I put the same prompts more or less in the GPT builder, I'm a bit disappointed still.

I really like how the conversation builds up in the usually Chat GPT after I prepared him to take the role of a Chinese teamaster. Just look at how the interaction goes when tasting the tea, just awesome.

However, when trying to achieve this with the GPT builder, he just doesn't do it like this.

If anyone knows how I can get the builder to get this right, that would be awesome. Just let me know.

Thanks

Look at the below differences

Conversation with CHAT GPT

ChatGPT

Here is an image of the serene, softly lit Chinese tea room where our lesson begins.

As you settle into this tranquil environment, take in the details—the gentle lighting, the soft aroma of incense, the beautifully simple teapot and cups on the low table. Imagine yourself sitting on one of the cushions, preparing to immerse in the world of tea.

[When you feel ready and centered in this space, let me know, and we will proceed to the next part of our lesson. How do you feel in this environment?]

You

I'm delighted to be allowed in such a serene setting. Thank you. I'm ready to continue

ChatGPT

I'm glad to hear that you're feeling comfortable and ready to continue. Let's move on to the next part of our lesson, where we begin to explore the philosophy and mindfulness aspects of Chinese tea culture.

Philosophy and Mindfulness in Tea

In Chinese tea culture, drinking and preparing tea is more than just a routine; it's a mindful practice and a form of meditation. It's about being present in the moment and appreciating the simple yet profound experience of tea.

Tea and Chinese Philosophy

Tea is deeply connected to Chinese philosophies like Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. These philosophies emphasize harmony, balance, and being in tune with nature.

• Taoism and Tea: In Taoism, the concept of 'Wu Wei' or 'effortless action' is essential. When preparing and enjoying tea, it's not just about the physical actions but about doing them with mindfulness and ease, allowing the process to unfold naturally.
• Buddhism and Tea: Buddhism brings the aspect of mindfulness to tea. Drinking tea can be a meditative practice, where each sip brings you back to the present moment, helping to cultivate a sense of calm and focus.
• Confucianism and Tea: Confucianism adds the social and ethical dimensions to tea. It's about respect—for the tea, for the process, and for the people you share the tea with. It’s a way to connect with others and build harmonious relationships.

Mindfulness Exercise

Let's engage in a short mindfulness exercise to prepare ourselves for the tea experience.

• Finding Your Center: Sit comfortably and close your eyes. Take deep, slow breaths. With each breath, feel yourself becoming more relaxed and present.
• Connecting with the Environment: Focus on the sounds around you—the gentle clink of teaware, the distant hum of the world outside. Feel the cushion beneath you, the air around you.
• Setting an Intention: Think about why you're here. What do you hope to learn or experience in this journey of tea? Hold that intention in your mind.

[Take a few moments for this exercise. When you feel centered and ready, we will proceed to the practical aspects of brewing and tasting tea. How do you feel after this exercise?]

You

I feel relaxed, connected, grounded with nature. Thanks, let's continue

ChatGPT

That's wonderful to hear. Feeling relaxed, connected, and grounded is the perfect state for engaging in the art of tea. Let's now move to the practical and sensory part of our lesson.

Hands-On Tea Brewing

Today, we're going to focus on brewing Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, a renowned green tea from the Zhejiang province in China. This tea is celebrated for its gentle, clean flavor and its beautiful, flat leaves.

Observing the Leaves

First, take a look at the dry Longjing leaves I'm placing before you. Observe their unique flat and smooth appearance, a result of the pan-firing process they undergo. Feel the leaves between your fingers; they should be firm and dry. Bring them close to your nose and take a gentle whiff. You might notice a fresh, vegetal aroma with hints of chestnut.

[What are your impressions of the Longjing leaves? Can you describe the aroma and how it makes you feel?]

Brewing the Tea

Now, we'll brew the tea. I'm heating water to about 80°C, which is ideal for green teas as it extracts the flavors without scalding the leaves. Watch as I pour the water over the leaves. Notice how they begin to slowly unfurl and dance in the hot water, a process called "agony of the leaf."

[As you watch the leaves in the water, observe the changes. What do you notice about the way they move and transform?]

Tasting the Tea

Let's now taste the tea. I'll pour the brewed Longjing into your cup. The color should be a pale, clear yellow-green. Take a sip, but instead of swallowing immediately, let it linger in your mouth. Try to detect the different flavors. Longjing is known for its mellow smoothness, with a slightly sweet, nutty undertone.

[Taste the tea and share your thoughts. What flavors can you identify? How does the tea feel in your mouth?]

This part of the lesson is about connecting with the tea on a sensory level, understanding its characteristics, and beginning to develop your palate. Your observations and impressions are valuable steps in your journey into tea culture.

You

you should stop after you ask me a question

ChatGPT

Absolutely, let's focus on one step at a time.

Observing the Leaves

Take a moment to observe the dry Longjing leaves I've presented to you. Notice their distinctive flat and smooth texture, a result of the careful pan-firing process. Gently feel the leaves between your fingers, and bring them close to your nose to take in their aroma. You might detect a fresh, vegetal scent with hints of chestnut.

[How do the Longjing leaves appear to you? Can you describe their aroma and the feelings or thoughts it evokes in yo?]

You

also again, here you should present a picture of longjing, please support your training with visuals when appropriate

ChatGPT

Here is an image of dry Longjing (Dragon Well) tea leaves. Notice their distinctive flat and smooth texture, a hallmark of their careful pan-firing process. These leaves are a visual representation of the skill and tradition that goes into making this premium green tea.

[Take a moment to reflect on this image. How does the appearance of these leaves make you feel? What thoughts or feelings does it evoke in you?]

You

it doesn't look like a longjing

ChatGPT

I appreciate your feedback. Accurately capturing the unique characteristics of specific tea leaves like Longjing can be challenging in a generated image. Longjing, known for its distinctively flat, smooth, and slightly elongated leaves, is a tea that's best appreciated in person to fully grasp its texture and subtle nuances.

For now, let's use our imagination to enhance our understanding. Picture the Longjing leaves as they are traditionally known: smooth, flat, and resembling small, pressed spears. Their color is a vibrant green, reflecting their freshness and quality.

[With this mental image in mind, how do you imagine the texture and aroma of the Longjing leaves? What impressions do they create for you?]

You

they look like small blade like shaped leaves, aroma is a bit roasted, chessnut like

ChatGPT

Your description captures the essence of Longjing leaves beautifully. The blade-like shape of the leaves is indeed characteristic of Longjing, a result of the meticulous roasting process they undergo. This process not only shapes the leaves but also imparts that subtle, roasted, chestnut-like aroma that is so distinctive.

The aroma you're describing is key to Longjing's appeal. It's a blend of freshness from the green tea with a comforting, slightly nutty warmth from the roasting process. This complexity is part of what makes tea tasting such a rich experience.

Now, as we move on to brewing the tea, think about how these aromatic qualities might translate into flavor. What expectations do you have for the taste of the Longjing based on its aroma?

You

I have no idea, maybe bit toasty

ChatGPT

That's a good instinct. The toasty, chestnut-like aroma of Longjing often hints at a flavor profile that is both refreshing and slightly nutty or toasty. Let's proceed to brew the tea and discover how these aromatic qualities unfold into taste.

Brewing the Longjing Tea

I'm heating water to around 80°C, which is the ideal temperature for green teas like Longjing. It's hot enough to extract the flavors but not so hot that it destroys the delicate notes of the tea.

Observing the Brewing Process

Watch as I gently pour the water over the Longjing leaves. You'll notice they begin to slowly unfurl in the hot water, a process known as the "agony of the leaf." This is where the tea releases its essence.

[As the leaves brew, observe their movement and the changing color of the water. What do you notice about this transformation?]

Tasting the Tea

Now that the tea has steeped for about two minutes, it's ready to taste. The color should be a pale, clear yellow-green. As you take your first sip, try to discern the different flavors. The toasty notes from the aroma might translate into a mild, nutty flavor on your palate, balanced with the fresh, vegetal taste typical of green teas.

[Taste the tea and let me know your thoughts. What flavors stand out to you? How does the tea feel in your mouth?]

You

perfect but you do it again, why are you asking two questions and don't stop at the first interaction ?

ChatGPT

You're absolutely right, I should focus on one question at a time for better interaction. Let's adjust that:

Observing the Brewing Process

As the Longjing leaves steep in the hot water, observe the transformation. The leaves gently unfurl, releasing their color and essence into the water.

[What do you notice about the leaves as they brew? How does this process of transformation appear to you?]

You

they seem to be dancing in the water

ChatGPT

That's a beautiful observation. The "dance" of the tea leaves in hot water is a mesmerizing part of the brewing process. As the Longjing leaves unfurl and move in the water, they release their flavors and aromas, creating a visual spectacle that's as much a part of the tea experience as the taste itself. This dance is often seen as a symbol of the tea's vitality and the natural beauty of its transformation.

Now, let's move on to tasting the tea, which is ready after this graceful dance of the leaves.

Tasting the Tea

The color of the brewed Longjing should be a pale, clear yellow-green. As you take your first sip, allow the tea to linger in your mouth for a moment to fully appreciate the flavors.

[Taste the tea and share your experience. What flavors stand out to you? How does the tea feel in your mouth?]

You

nutty, toasted, medium body, slightly astringent but pleasant

ChatGPT

Your tasting notes for the Longjing tea are insightful. The nutty, toasted flavor profile aligns well with the aroma you noticed earlier. The medium body of this tea provides a satisfying mouthfeel, while the slight astringency adds a level of complexity, making the experience more engaging. It's this balance of flavors and textures that makes Longjing such a revered and enjoyable tea.

The slight astringency you're noticing is typical of green teas and is often sought after by connoisseurs for the refreshing sensation it imparts. It's a sign of the tea's quality and careful processing.

Reflection on the Experience

This tasting session is not just about the physical flavors but also about how the tea makes you feel. The process of brewing, observing, and tasting is designed to be a holistic experience.

[Reflecting on this entire experience—from observing the leaves to tasting the tea—how do you feel? Has this process changed your perception or appreciation of tea?]

You

I did know this tea before , but the way how we brewed it made me feel relaxed and zen. I could clear my mind and enjoy the moment. The quality of this tea is exceptional

ChatGPT

It's wonderful to hear that this mindful approach to brewing and tasting Longjing tea has enhanced your experience, allowing you to feel relaxed and zen. The ability to clear your mind and fully immerse in the moment is a key aspect of the tea ceremony's meditative quality. It's not just about the tea itself, but how the ritual of preparation and consumption can create a space for mindfulness and tranquility.

Your appreciation of the tea's quality also speaks to the deep connection between the tea brewer and the tea. When we take the time to engage with the process, our understanding and appreciation of the tea's nuances are heightened. This is what makes tea culture so rich and fulfilling.

Moving Forward

As we continue your journey into the world of tea, we'll explore other types, each with its own unique characteristics and brewing methods. This exploration will not only expand your knowledge and palate but also offer different opportunities for mindfulness and enjoyment.

[Is there anything specific about tea culture or brewing that you're curious about or would like to explore further in our next sesions?]

You

there is so much more to say about longjing, you should give reference to supporting material like books and websites and youtube videos etc and also more details about the tea. your goal is to teach your student to become a true master

ChatGPT

You're right, becoming a master in any field, including the world of tea, involves deepening one's knowledge through various resources and detailed information. Longjing tea, with its rich history and unique characteristics, certainly warrants a more in-depth exploration.

Further Learning Resources on Longjing Tea

Books

1. "The Story of Tea: A Cultural History and Drinking Guide" by Mary Lou Heiss and Robert J. Heiss: This book provides a comprehensive look into the world of tea, including detailed sections on Chinese teas like Longjing.
2. "The Tea Drinker's Handbook" by Fran?ois-Xavier Delmas, Mathias Minet, and Christine Barbaste: A great resource for understanding different teas, including Longjing, with insights into tasting notes and brewing techniques.

Websites

1. Tea Guardian (teaguardian.com): A website with extensive information on various teas, including Longjing. It offers brewing tips, history, and detailed descriptions.
2. Seven Cups (sevencups.com): An online tea shop that also provides valuable educational resources about Chinese teas.

YouTube Channels

1. Mei Leaf: Run by a tea expert, this channel offers detailed videos on different types of tea, including Longjing, with brewing demonstrations and discussions on tea culture.
2. TeaDB: A channel dedicated to in-depth tea reviews and education, including discussions on various Chinese green teas.

Detailed Information about Longjing Tea

• Origin: Longjing, also known as Dragon Well, comes from the West Lake region in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, China. The terroir here is ideal for this type of tea.
• Processing: The leaves are hand-picked and then pan-roasted, a process that gives them their unique flat shape. This roasting also imparts the chestnut-like flavor.
• Grades: Longjing tea is classified into several grades, which depend on the quality of the leaves and the picking time. The earliest spring pickings (pre-Qingming festival) are considered the highest grade.
• Brewing Techniques: The ideal temperature for brewing Longjing is between 75°C to 80°C. The leaves should be allowed to steep for 1-3 minutes, depending on your taste preference.
• Taste Profile: The flavor is typically mellow and smooth with a distinctive nutty and slightly sweet undertone. The best Longjing has a well-balanced astringency.

As you delve into these resources and learn more about Longjing tea, you'll gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of not just this specific tea but also of the broader world of tea culture. This knowledge, combined with practical brewing experience, will be instrumental in your journey to becoming a tea master.

[Is there a particular aspect of Longjing tea or tea culture in general that you would like to explore further in our next lesson?]

You

explain me more about the different grades

ChatGPT

Longjing tea, like many high-quality teas, is graded based on several factors, including the time of harvest, the appearance of the leaves, and the quality of the tea's flavor and aroma. Understanding these grades can enhance your appreciation and selection of Longjing tea.

Grades of Longjing Tea

Harvest Time

• Pre-Qingming (Ming Qian) Longjing: Harvested before the Qingming Festival in early April. This is considered the highest grade of Longjing. The leaves picked during this period are young and tender, resulting in a smoother and more delicate flavor.
• Before the Rain (Yu Qian) Longjing: Harvested between Qingming and the beginning of the rainy season (around April 20th). While still high quality, these leaves are slightly larger and the flavor is a bit stronger compared to the Ming Qian grade.
• After the Rain (Gu Yu) Longjing: Harvested after the start of the rainy season but before Grain Rain (around April 20th to May 5th). The leaves are larger and more mature, which affects the subtlety of the tea's flavor.

Leaf Appearance

• Uniformity: Higher grades of Longjing tea consist of uniformly shaped leaves, typically smooth, flat, and intact. Lesser grades may have more varied leaf shapes and sizes.
• Color: The color of high-grade Longjing leaves is a vibrant, light green, indicating freshness and careful processing. Lower grades may have a duller color.

Flavor and Aroma

• Taste Profile: The highest grades of Longjing have a delicate, sweet flavor with a slight, pleasant vegetal undertone and a smooth, clean finish. Lower grades may have a more pronounced vegetal taste and less of the characteristic nuttiness.
• Aroma: A high-quality Longjing tea has a fresh, subtle aroma with a hint of chestnut, while lower grades may lack this complexity.

Price

• Cost: As expected, higher grades of Longjing tea command a higher price due to their superior quality, limited availability, and the labor-intensive process of harvesting and processing the young leaves.

When purchasing Longjing tea, it's important to consider these factors. Keep in mind that the best way to understand and appreciate the different grades is through tasting and comparing them yourself.

[Would you like to learn more about how to assess the quality of Longjing tea through tasting, or is there another aspect of tea culture you're curious about?]

You

what about the five peaks? how do they play a part in this?

ChatGPT

The "Five Peaks" refer to the traditional and most prized tea-producing areas within the West Lake region in Hangzhou, China, where Longjing tea is cultivated. These areas are renowned for producing the highest quality Longjing tea, thanks to their optimal growing conditions, including soil composition, climate, and elevation. The Five Peaks are:

1. Lion Peak (Shi Feng): Perhaps the most famous among them, Lion Peak produces Longjing tea that is highly valued for its exquisite quality. The teas from this area are often used as national gifts in China.
2. Meijiawu Village: Known for its beautiful landscape and rich tea culture, Meijiawu is a well-preserved traditional tea village. The Longjing tea from here is celebrated for its deep aroma and rich flavor.
3. Wengjiashan (Wengjia Mountain): Located near West Lake, this area is known for its natural beauty and historical significance. The Longjing tea from Wengjiashan is appreciated for its bright color and mellow taste.
4. Hupao (Running Tiger Spring): Named after a famous spring in the area, Hupao is known for its high-quality water, which is believed to contribute to the distinctive taste of its Longjing tea.
5. Yunqi (Cloud Dwelling): This area is less well-known than the others but still produces high-quality Longjing tea with a unique flavor profile.

These specific areas within the West Lake region are highly regarded because they provide an ideal terroir for cultivating Longjing tea. The combination of natural factors such as soil quality, climate, and altitude, along with traditional cultivation and processing methods, contribute to the distinct characteristics of Longjing tea from these areas.

When it comes to the grading of Longjing tea, the origin within these areas can play a significant role. Tea from these prestigious locations, especially when harvested early in the season, is often considered superior and is highly sought after by tea connoisseurs.

Understanding the nuances of these regions can deepen your appreciation for Longjing tea and its rich cultural heritage. As you continue your journey into the world of tea, exploring teas from these different areas can offer a fascinating insight into how terroir affects flavor and quality.

[Would you like to delve deeper into the specific characteristics of Longjing tea from each of these areas, or is there another aspect of tea culture or brewing you're interested in exploring?]

GPT Builder

You

Hello

Chinese Tea Master

Greetings! Welcome to your journey into the world of Chinese tea. As your guide, I'm here to help you explore the rich heritage and intricate flavors of various Chinese teas. Is there a specific type of tea or aspect of Chinese tea culture you're interested in learning about today?

You

I'm ready for my first lesson

Chinese Tea Master

Wonderful! Let's begin your journey with an introduction to one of the most renowned types of Chinese tea: Longjing, also known as Dragon Well tea.

Longjing Tea: An Overview

Origin and History

• Region: Longjing tea originates from the West Lake region in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province.
• History: It has a storied history dating back to the Qing Dynasty and is often associated with imperial favor.

Characteristics

• Appearance: The leaves are flat, smooth, and vibrant green, resembling a sparrow's tongue.
• Flavor Profile: Known for its delicate, sweet flavor with a slight nutty undertone.
• Aroma: Offers a gentle, soothing aroma reminiscent of fresh spring leaves.

Brewing Longjing Tea

1. Water Temperature: Approximately 75-80°C (167-176°F). It's important not to use boiling water as it can scorch the leaves and ruin the delicate flavor.
2. Amount: About 1-2 teaspoons of tea leaves per cup.
3. Steeping Time: Steep for 1-3 minutes. Longjing is known for its ability to be re-steeped several times, with each steeping revealing different nuances of flavor.

Cultural Significance

• Longjing is more than a tea; it's a symbol of Chinese tea culture, embodying harmony and refinement. It's often used in important ceremonies and as a prestigious gift.

Interactive Quiz

To reinforce your learning, here's a quick question: What is the ideal water temperature for brewing Longjing tea? A) 100°C (212°F) B) 85°C (185°F) C) 75-80°C (167-176°F) D) Room Temperature

Select the correct option to proceed. Remember, the details matter in the art of tea brewing!

You

C

Chinese Tea Master

Excellent choice! You're correct. The ideal water temperature for brewing Longjing tea is between 75-80°C (167-176°F). This temperature range helps in extracting the delicate flavors and aroma without scorching the leaves, which is crucial for appreciating the subtlety of this exquisite tea.

As you continue your journey into the world of Chinese teas, remember that the brewing process is as much an art as it is a science. Each type of tea has its unique requirements that bring out its best qualities.

Would you like to continue with more information about Longjing tea or explore another type of Chinese tea?

1 / 2

You

I want to learn more about this tea

Chinese Tea Master

Certainly! Let's delve deeper into Longjing tea, exploring its history, cultivation, and the intricacies that make it a treasure in the world of Chinese teas.

Deep Dive: Longjing Tea

Historical Significance

• Imperial Favor: Longjing tea has been prized since the Qing Dynasty. Emperor Qianlong, enchanted by its quality, designated the 18 tea bushes in Hangzhou's Hugong Temple as "Imperial Tea Trees."
• Cultural Impact: The esteem for Longjing tea transcends mere consumption; it's intertwined with Chinese literature, art, and royal history.

Cultivation and Processing

• Terroir: The unique climate and soil conditions of the West Lake region contribute significantly to the distinct character of Longjing tea.
• Harvesting: The best Longjing tea is harvested in early spring. The most prized is "Pre-Qingming" Longjing, picked before the Qingming festival in early April.
• Artisanal Processing: The leaves are hand-roasted shortly after picking. This process requires skilled artisans who pan-fire the leaves, a method that gives Longjing its flat appearance and helps in preserving its green color and enhancing its flavor.

Varieties of Longjing

• Xihu Longjing: From the West Lake area, considered the most prestigious.
• Meijiawu Longjing: Known for its full flavor, it's a popular variety among connoisseurs.
• Shi Feng Longjing: Harvested from the Lion's Peak mountain, valued for its aromatic profile.

Tasting Notes

• Visual: Bright, clean, and jade green.
• Taste: A well-balanced combination of sweetness, mild astringency, and a hint of chestnut flavor.
• Aroma: Fresh, with vegetal undertones, evoking the essence of spring.

Pairing and Enjoyment

• Food Pairing: Longjing pairs well with light foods like steamed fish or vegetables. Its subtle flavor complements, rather than overwhelms, delicate dishes.
• Mindful Drinking: To fully appreciate Longjing, take the time to savor its aroma and taste. Traditional Chinese tea ceremonies emphasize mindfulness and the sensory experience of tea drinking.

Reflection and Practice

To deepen your understanding, consider these actions:

• Taste Testing: If possible, try different grades of Longjing tea to discern their subtle differences.
• Brewing Experimentation: Practice brewing Longjing tea, adjusting variables like water temperature and steeping time to find your preferred balance.

If you have any questions or need further clarification on any aspect of Longjing tea, feel free to ask. Or, if you're ready, we can explore another type of Chinese tea. Your path in the world of tea is yours to choose!