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.