How to make a perfect cup of tea!

There is nothing like a cup of perfectly brewed tea. While preparing tea is a simple process, brewing that perfect cup requires attention and knowledge. The amount of water used, the temperature, time of infusion, quantity of tea leaves as well as the vessel used all contribute in concocting the most satisfying cup of tea. However, how you enjoy your tea is a personal affair and we can only guide you, offering pointers so that you are able to grasp the basics of tea-making and brew your tea consistently to your liking.

Water

Always use freshly drawn, cold water to prepare tea. This is important because fresh water contains more oxygen and enhances the taste of tea. The water should be boiled until tiny air bubbles gently rise to the surface. At this point the water is sufficiently heated and contains the preferable amount of oxygen. Water that has been held at a fierce, rolling boil or re-using previously boiled water can leave tea tasting dull and flat.

Tea

Amount of tea required for a cup vary according to the grades and types of tea. Therefore, all our teas come with brewing instructions and the amount of tea required. Measure the loose tea according to the suggested amount on the packet. Place the loose tea either into the pot or into an infuser. If using tea bag, use one bag per person. If you want a stronger cup, use more tea. Do not leave the tea longer than instructed as this will only leave the tea tasting bitter.

Temperature

Temperature is critical in making good tea. Each variety of tea needs to prepared at a different range of temperature. Because of its more delicate processing, green, white and oolong teas often need cooler temperature (hot, but not boiling) to bring out the right flavor. Boiling water will cook the tea leaves and destroy the flavor.

Conversely, black tea and herbal tea which have been fully oxidized, are best prepared with water that has come to boiling. This lets the tea bring out its characteristic baked sweetness.

Duration of Infusion

Similar to water temperature, different teas require different lengths of brewing time to bring out their best character. Delicate teas such as green tea need to be brewed for shorter times, while heartier black teas benefit from longer infusions. Generally the rule is, the smaller the leaves, the faster the tea infuses. When the tea tastes right, remove the leaves immediately to avoid over steeping. It is important that you pay attention to the taste rather than the color. Of course, the duration of infusion depends on your personal taste.

These guidelines will help you brew an enjoyable cup of tea. Once you become comfortable with the brewing process, you can experiment with different brewing duration, water temperature and quantity of tea leaves to make the cup personal to your liking.