In a novel effort to promote Ceylon Tea in the Belgian market, the Sri Lanka Embassy in Brussels hosted a ‘Ceylon Tea and Belgian Chocolate Pairing Workshop’ on Tuesday, June 3, at the official Sri Lanka Residence in Brussels. The event aimed to creatively elevate the profile of Ceylon Tea by pairing it with premium Belgian artisanal chocolates, offering a curated sensory experience for industry professionals and connoisseurs alike.
Organised in collaboration with Stijn Van Schoonlandt, a certified Tea Master, international speaker, and Regional Director for Europe of the International Tea Masters Association, the workshop attracted Tea importers, distributors, sommeliers, chocolatiers, and other stakeholders from across Belgium’s specialty food sector.
Welcoming attendees, Ambassador Chandana Weerasena encouraged participants to explore business and tourism opportunities in Sri Lanka, with a special focus on engaging with local Tea producers and discovering the country’s scenic Tea Trails across the central highlands.
Minister Commercial of the Embassy, Thavishya Mullegamgoda, delivered a presentation on the diversity and quality of Ceylon Tea. She emphasized its unique journey “from plantation to palate” and underscored its global reputation for flavour, purity, and provenance.
The highlight of the event was the pairing session conducted by Mr. Schoonlandt, who introduced six distinctive varieties of Ceylon Tea—including Mellow Black Tea, Ceylon Bloom, Cinnamon Cigar, OP1, FBOPF SP, and Spice Chai. These were thoughtfully matched with Belgian chocolates such as praline, milk chocolate, white chocolate, dark chocolate, and lime-infused chocolate, creating a nuanced tasting experience.
The Tea used in the workshop was sourced from acclaimed Sri Lankan exporters including Amba Estate, Bogawantalawa Ceylon Tea (Pvt) Ltd, Kaley Tea Estate, and Rosyth Artisan Teas. Displayed prominently at the venue, these teas showcased Sri Lanka’s capacity to produce diverse and high-quality offerings tailored for global markets.
The evening concluded with discussions on strategies to expand Ceylon Tea’s footprint in Belgium, while guests enjoyed Sri Lankan finger foods paired with signature Tea and chocolate combinations—blending culture, commerce, and cuisine in a unique diplomatic initiative.
