It's not an overly complicated process. Nor is it a wizard behind a curtain type of secret that the world is keeping that prevents you from getting that perfect cup of tea. It is actually quite simple once you understand this one sentence: Brewing tea requires matching water temperature to tea type and steeping to avoid bitterness.

Each type of tea requires a different temperate in order for the oils, antioxidants and tannins (which are the bitter parts) to be extracted. Each tea is more delicate than another, so each will require a different temperature and steep time for this reason. Herbal teas are given calculated temperature and steep times based upon base ingredients, middle and then minor ingredients.

Let's talk about water. You may have noticed that we have mentioned spring water (or filtered water) a time or two on our website. Wondering why? The balanced mineral content and neutral pH brings out and even enhances the flavors of the tea. Tap water, along with distilled water will give your tea a chemical or a flat taste to your cup of tea (yuck!). So why make such a beautiful cup of tea only to have it ruined by the wrong water? You can also

The time your tea is steeped is also going to affect the flavor of your tea. we already mentioned the bitterness, which can happen if you leave the tea to steep for too long. You can also have weak tasting tea if you do not allow your teal leaves to steep for long enough. It is a bit of a balance, one that you will find second nature as you go along on your new found adventure! The following information should help:

White Tea

180° F, for 3-5 minutes. 

Green Tea

180° F, for 2-3 minutes.

Oolong Tea

190° F, for 3-5 minutes.

Black Tea

212° F, for 3-5 minutes. 

Herbal Tea

212° F, 5-10 minutes. 

How much loose leaf tea do I use? This question is in the top three questions that we get, and rightfully so. It can be confusing to new tea drinkers. I mean, what in the world is in one of those little bags, and how much?? So, let's dispel the mystery right now. You normally need 1 teaspoon per 8 ounces of water. Normally? Yep. I said Normally. Because you are the master of your tea. If you drink your cup of tea and find it to be weaker than you like, I always advise to play around with it. Steep it a little longer, use a little bit more tea next time. Make it your own!

Tea/Water Ratio:

• 1 tsp per 8 ounces

• 1 1/2-2 tsp per 12 ounces

• 2-3 tsp per 16 ounces

• 4-5 tsp per 24 ounces

For tea infusing, tea info and more in depth information visit our other 101 pages.

You can find fascinating information as well as recipes and tons more in our blog!