Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Today dawned sunny and bright and the whole group seemed anxious for an adventure.  We were shuttled to John’s Island, for a look at “Angel Oak”.   The Angel is estimated to be between 3 and 400 hundred years old and it’s magnificent!  We had a bit of time for meandering and picture taking and then it was time to ride.

The ride today was moderate – choice of 23 or 27 miles.  Not sure how, but somehow we arrived onto Wadmalaw Island, we stopped at the Charleston Tea Plantation.  Truly amazing – never really stopped to think how tea was grown or produced!  Considering it’s all I drink, I found this very interesting. 

Back in the 60’s (cold war era), Lipton Tea Co. operated an experimental tea farm o the island, whicfh it in turn sold.  The new owners converted the experimental farm into a working tea plantation by utilizing a converted cotton picker and tobacco harvester to mechanically harvest the tea.  Some of the tea plants are hundreds of years old, and they continue to yield a healthy crop.  Tea loves heat, humidity and of course, some hydration – all of which are near perfect in this region.  The most fascinating fact I learned is that black tea, oolong and green are all derived from the same leaves.  The amount of oxidation is what creates the color and strength.  Flavored teas are just that… a tiny amount of concentrated flavor is added to pounds of leaves!  The Bigelow Tea Co purchased this plantation, and helped to keep the plantation operational.  American Classic Tea is the last remaining working tea farm in America.

 

We enjoyed a picnic lunch at the plantation, and then it was on to the Irvin House Vineyards which shares property with the Firefly Distillery!!  We enjoyed a tasting – moonshine among the samplings, as well as flavored vodkas.   Best time ever!! – Tea and vodka in one day!

We were shuttled to Beaufort , for a stay in the beautiful Beaufort Inn .  After dinner, we were entertained by Eveleen, who told us about the history of the low islands in word and song.  We were taught the intricacies of fan holding, the Virgina Reel,  Patty Cake  Polka and the Broom (sweep?) Waltz.  A lot of laughing and  fun was had by all!