Cups & Mugs

What is the difference between a cup and a mug?

Cups and mugs serve similar purposes, but differ in shape and use.

Teacups

• usually smaller and more delicate
• often part of a set with a saucer
• particularly suited to mindful, slow tea drinking

Tea mugs

• larger and more robust
• thicker walls for better heat retention
• ideal for everyday use or larger quantities of tea

While teacups are often used during classic tea ceremonies or at the table, mugs are especially practical for daily use.

Why the right drinking vessel matters

The vessel influences how we perceive tea. Shape, material and size affect temperature, aroma and the overall drinking experience.

Key factors include:

• Aroma development: The shape of a cup can influence how fragrance and aroma reach the drinker.
• Temperature retention: Thicker mug walls retain heat for longer, while thinner cups bring the tea to drinking temperature more quickly.
• Your drinking experience: The size and weight of a vessel determine how comfortable it feels in the hand.

Choosing the right cup or mug can therefore make a real difference – both to flavour and to the overall tea experience.

Materials used for teacups and mugs

Cups and mugs are made from a variety of materials, each with its own characteristics.

Porcelain and ceramic

Porcelain and ceramic are classic materials for teacups. They retain heat well and do not affect the flavour of the tea.

Glass

Glass is flavour-neutral and allows you to observe the colour and clarity of the tea. This can enhance the experience, especially with high-quality teas.

Double-walled glass

Double-walled glasses insulate the heat, keeping the tea hot for longer while the outside remains pleasantly cool.

Which cup suits which tea?

Many teas can be enjoyed from different vessels; however, certain shapes can be particularly well suited to specific teas.

• Small teacups: Ideal for high-quality teas enjoyed over multiple infusions.
• Large mugs: Perfect for everyday herbal or fruit teas.
• Glass mugs: Especially attractive for teas with intense colours or flowering teas.

Choosing the right vessel often depends on personal drinking habits and the type of tea.

Cups and mugs in the tea ritual

In many tea cultures, the drinking vessel is a central part of the ritual. In traditional Chinese or Japanese tea cultures, smaller cups are commonly used to focus more closely on aroma and flavour. These small vessels enable multiple infusions and invite mindful, unhurried tea enjoyment.

P&T stoneware mugs produced in Europe

Many of our stoneware cups and mugs are made in Portugal. Production takes place in specialised ceramic workshops within the European Union, renowned for their long-standing ceramic tradition and high level of craftsmanship.

Stoneware is fired at high temperatures, making it particularly robust and durable for everyday use. At the same time, the material gives the cups a pleasant feel and a distinctive surface. Manufacturing in Portugal allows for short transport routes within Europe and combines traditional ceramic craftsmanship with modern design standards.