I read about tea online every day but there is something special about having a physical magazine in your hands. I recently caught wind of a new tea publication called eightyº. The previews that I saw on my Instagram feed were enough to make me jump on ordering the first issue.
The heavyweight paper used for both the cover and inside pages was the first thing that caught my eye. How gorgeous is that gold foil logo? This is not your typical flimsy paperback. Some corners were bent in shipping but otherwise, it held up very well for something coming from the U.K.
What’s inside?
This inaugural issue features thirteen full-length articles interspersed with beautiful photographs and illustrations. I was particularly excited to see a contribution from the ever knowledgeable Rie of TeaCurious. The topics ranged from history and brewing to in-depth interviews with tea industry entrepreneurs.
The content walked a good middle ground between guidance for beginners and unbridled tea geekery. There was still enough to hold the interest of seasoned tea readers without being intimidating. A small glossary was included at the end for those who might need a little help with terminology.
Unlike most other industry publications, the publishers of eightyº seem very open to contributions. Their inclusive attitude is very much appreciated. The tea world is diverse and it is important that every voice is heard. I may even pitch an article or two myself if inspiration strikes.
eightyº is off to a great start. I wouldn’t hesitate to say that this is the nicest tea magazine I’ve had the pleasure to read. It is obvious that a lot of thought and effort went into both the content and construction. It was also nice to read something free of advertisements for once. Unlike my subscription to Vogue, eightyº is not full of filler.
Is it worth it?
I’ve heard a few people complain about the price of this magazine. After the exchange rate and free shipping, my total came to just over $17. I think it was totally worth that price considering the size, quality, and total lack of advertisements. Art of Tea and Tea Journey are both comparable tea magazines in that price range. I would even argue that eightyº could become better than both of its predecessors.
Have you read eightyº yet? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
I had been wondering about ordering this; now I will. Thanks for the review.
I think you’ll really enjoy it 🙂
I clicked through your link to their site and it looks gorgeous! Plus free shipping worldwide sounds very attractive to me – this is going on my wishlist! (Getting one book on tea this month so this will have to wait)
Right? Free shipping is a huge plus. I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts on it once you give it a read!
I jumped on it and ordered the initial copy as soon as I saw it advertised. I don’t regret the cost either. The magazine is a pleasure to hold, the photography is lovely, and the articles are comprehensive. I think this first issue leans a bit toward readers who are newer to tea, but I’m hopeful that future issues will have more pieces for more experienced drinkers. I’m delighted to see such a magazine on the market.
I jumped on this and ordered the first issue as soon as i saw it advertised. i don’t regret the cost either. The magazine is so pleasant to hold, the photography is lovely, and the articles are comprehensive. I think the introductory issue leans a bit toward information for people newer to tea, but I’m hopeful that future issues will have pieces that are geared to those with more experienced with the world of tea. I like that they invite submissions, so I look forward to a range of expertise and views expressed. I’m glad that such a magazine is on the market.
I’m glad that you enjoyed it too! I definitely think we’ll see some more in depth articles in the future.