July 22, 2010

Here’s to A Full Cup

Recently, we’ve been enjoying the life story of Sir Thomas Lipton as
recounted in “A Full Cup: Sir Thomas Lipton’s Extraordinary Life and
His Quest For The America’s Cup” by Michael D’Antonio. Seems the
distinguished “Sir Tea” led quite a life, starting out the son of
humble grocers in Glasgow, emigrating to America, making his fortune,
and returning to become the toast of Britain. Knighted by Queen
Victoria for hosting a banquet for the poor (washed down by plenty of
tea), Lipton was also made a baronet by his yachting buddy, King
Edward VII. His slogan “a spoonful for every person and one for the
pot” revolutionized tea marketing and consumption in England. We’re
just guessing, but based on the witty personality you meet in these
pages, joyfully pursuing the America’s Cup title in sailing, among
other diversions, “Tom Tea” would enjoy cruising into Smith for the
new America’s cup of full leaf tea. Or maybe we’d just open an icy
bottle of Smith Blackcap and watch “Tin Cup” on DVD.