Ten tips to help you brew a better cup of tea

There are no definitive rules for brewing tea because good tea depends on personal preference, time, brewing methods, types of tea, water temperature, and amounts of tea. Brewing tea should be simple, easy, and enjoyable.

1) Good Water

Good water makes good tea. Start with fresh, cold water, preferably filtered or spring water. Fresh water contains more oxygen, which can enhance the flavors of tea. Tap water, distilled water, or water boiled for a long period of time can result in a tea with a bland/dull taste and faint aroma.

2) Fresh Tea

Use Fresh tea that has been stored in an airtight container. Air, light, moisture and odors can diminish the teas natural flavor and aroma. Tea should be stored in a cool dry place. Refrigerate tea only if in sealed container.

3) Water Temperature

Delicate teas such as green and white teas, require lower temperatures than the darker varieties. These infusion temperatures are approximate and should be adapted to your personal preferences.

• Black tea: 212F/100C (gentle boil/below boiling)
• Oolong tea: 180-210F / 82-98C (below boiling)
• Green tea: 150-185F / 65-85C (well below boiling)
• White tea: 150-185F / 65-85C (well below boiling)
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• Herbal tea: Varies, gentle boil/below boiling

4) Tea Leaves

Use loose leaf tea, teabags contain broken fannings and lesser quality teas. Use approximately 1-2 teaspoons per cup.

5) Teaware

A teapot or infuser that allows the tea leaves to naturally unfurl will produce a more flavorful cup. The tea leaves are allowed to expand releasing all their flavor.

6) Infusion Time

Over infused leaves can yield a bitter, undrinkable tea. For stronger tea, add more leaves rather than infusing longer. When brewing pay attention to taste rather than colors.

7) Multiple Infusions

Some teas like oolongs, are good for multiple infusions, Try infusing the leaves several times, increasing the steep duration with each infusion. Each will have varying characteristics.

• Black tea: 3-5 minutes
• Green tea: 2-3 minutes
• White tea: 2-3 minutes
• Oolong tea: 2-5 minutes
• Herbal tea: 5-7 minutes

8) Experiment

Experiment with temperature, time, quantity of leaves, and types of water until you find your favorite combination.

9) Add to Taste

Depending on your preference, you can add a bit of milk, lemon, honey or sugar. In Asia, tea is typically enjoyed without.

10) Relax and Enjoy

Relax and enjoy the aroma, color and taste of your cup of tea. (This is the best part!)