Brew Tea

Water pouring is the only step in tea brewing that requires complete manual control. The speed of pouring, the intensity of the water flow, the direction, height, and thickness of the water stream are all manually controlled but have a significant impact on the quality of the tea. Common methods of water pouring include: spiral pouring, circular pouring, single-point pouring on one side, and central point pouring. Common techniques for pouring water include: high pouring, high suspension, low pouring, and low suspension. Let’s take a look at these four methods and techniques to see how they work and what their characteristics are. The Four Methods of Water Pouring in Tea Brewing 01. Spiral Pouring This method ensures that the edges and the surface of the tea leaves in the gaiwan come into direct contact with the poured water, increasing the blend of tea and water at the moment of pouring. This pouring technique is suitable for black tea, green tea, and white tea. Or, when brewing later infusions where the flavor has become lighter, using spiral pouring can help the tea essence to release more quickly. 02. Circular Pouring As the name suggests, this involves pouring water in a circle…

Aged Pu'er tea is best brewed with water at 100 degrees Celsius. This type of tea, made through a process of pile fermentation, has a mild character, rich flavor, and an intense aroma. Its substantial internal quality and high durability in brewing necessitate a water temperature that isn't too low, to ensure the full release of its taste. What is the Best Water Temperature for Brewing Aged Pu'er Tea? Generally, aged Pu'er tea should be brewed with boiling water, but it's advisable not to use water that is too hot as it can make the tea taste bitter and destroy its health-promoting components. Here are some temperature recommendations for brewing aged Pu'er tea: 1. Commonly, water between 95°C and 100°C is recommended for brewing aged Pu'er tea to enhance its aroma and flavor. 2. For aged tea heads or well-aged Pu'er tea, you may reduce the water temperature slightly, typically between 85°C and 95°C, to avoid bitterness. 3. If you find the aged Pu'er tea too bitter, you can lower the water temperature (usually between 90°C and 95°C) and decrease the brewing time (recommended 1-2 minutes). It is important to note that the specific temperature and brewing time for aged…

What is Pu'er Tea Fossil? The Pu'er tea fossil is a special form of ripe Pu'er tea, named for its appearance resembling stone. It is made through a unique fermentation and compression process, possessing a distinctive aged aroma and rich flavor. Not only does the tea fossil perform well during brewing, but it is also favored by tea enthusiasts for its convenient storage and portability. (Image source: Internet, delete upon request) Preparations for Brewing Pu'er Tea Fossil Before officially starting the brewing process, it is important to prepare the following tools and materials: Teapot or gaiwan: Preferably use a purple clay teapot or gaiwan, as this can better preserve and enhance the aroma and taste of the tea fossil. Teacups: Choose small to medium-sized cups, which are convenient for appreciating the changes in each infusion. Tea cloth and tray: To keep the tea table tidy and facilitate handling. Six Gentlemen of Tea: Auxiliary tools such as tea tongs and tea scoops. How to Brew Pu'er Tea Fossil? The steps for brewing Pu'er tea fossil may seem complex, but they are not difficult once you grasp the essentials. (Image source: Internet, delete upon request) Washing the Tea Due to its tightly…

After allowing the tea connoisseurs to appreciate the appearance of the tea, the tea brewer stands up and places the tea leaves into the pot, pours hot water over them from a kettle, covers the pot, and starts a timer. The tea brewer stops all other movements, placing their heart into the pot as they stand, accompanying the tea while it steeps in the hot water. Seeing this action from the tea brewer, the other tea connoisseurs also focus intently on the teapot. Thirty seconds pass, and the tea brewer remains standing still; another thirty seconds pass, and the tea brewer is still motionless. After a while, the tea brewer glances at the timer, then lifts the teapot to pour the tea into a pitcher. The other connoisseurs think about their questions: Why does it need to steep for so long? What will the tea infusion look like? The tea brewer is very focused on brewing the tea—. Why does the tea brewer stand while brewing the tea? Perhaps the chair isn't high enough, or perhaps he believes that standing emphasizes his role in accompanying the tea while it steeps in the pot. The tea leaves are plucked from the…

Huangjinya tea was accidentally discovered in Yuyao, Zhejiang province in the 1990s and then developed over a period of more than ten years. Huangjinya is a light-sensitive yellow variant cultivar, a marvel in the family of tea plant varieties, with its golden hue when exposed to sunlight and green leaves under shade. Huangjinya has a very high amino acid content, giving it a rich aroma and a fresh, mellow taste. Huangjinya has thin leaves and short buds. The dry tea is bright yellow with a slender, tight shape, and natural bud set. It has a clear, pale yellow infusion with a fragrant, lingering aroma and a fresh, full-bodied flavor. After drinking, it leaves a sweet aftertaste. So what is the tea-to-water ratio for brewing Huangjinya? The general tea-to-water ratio for Huangjinya is 1:50, but it varies depending on the brewing vessel. Glass cup: For a 300ml glass cup, use 5-6 grams of tea. Covered bowl: For a 120ml covered bowl, use 3-4 grams of tea. Teapot: For a 500ml teapot, use 5-7 grams of tea. Huangjinya is the only yellow variant tea in China, originally produced in Anji, Zhejiang. It has since been introduced to the precious and rare tea…

The so-called tea cooking method refers to brewing and then drinking the tea. Directly placing the tea in a pot to cook it was the most common way of drinking tea in China before the Tang Dynasty. There are records about the tea cooking process in Lu Yu's The Classic of Tea. Pu'er Ripened Tea Cooking Method Steps To start cooking the tea, prepare the necessary tools. For beginners just starting with Pu'er tea, a glass teapot is recommended as it is both economical and practical, and also allows for observing changes in the color of the tea broth, which helps determine the right time to pour it out. Next, prepare 8 to 10 grams of ripened Pu'er. Rinse it first using a lidded bowl, or you can steep it a few times before cooking. Finally, begin the actual cooking process by heating the water until it is gently boiling, then add the prepared ripened tea. Once the water in the pot starts boiling completely and the tea broth darkens, you can pour it out. Note that when cooking tea, it is recommended to pour out only half or two-thirds of the first batch of tea broth to drink, leaving…

Old Bingdao tea, a precious Pu'er tea from Yunnan Province, has captured the hearts of countless tea enthusiasts with its unique aroma and rich flavor. While many have heard of its reputation, few truly understand and master its brewing method. Today, let's unveil the mysteries of Old Bingdao tea together and learn how to brew it correctly to fully appreciate its distinctive charm. (Image source: Internet, delete upon infringement) Preparation: Choosing Suitable Teaware Choosing suitable teaware is crucial when brewing Old Bingdao tea. Gaiwans or purple clay pots are recommended as they better restore the tea's aroma and taste. Gaiwans are suitable for beginners and transparent glass gaiwans allow you to admire the color of the tea liquor. Purple clay pots are more suited to tea enthusiasts with some experience in tea art, as they enhance the tea's taste profile, but note that new purple clay pots need to be seasoned before use. Water Quality and Temperature Selection In the art of tea, "water is the mother of tea," and good water quality can greatly enhance the quality of the tea. When brewing Old Bingdao tea, it is recommended to use soft water such as mineral water or purified water,…

Pu'er tea cake is a traditional type of tea with a long history. Its unique flavor and health benefits have attracted many tea enthusiasts. The correct brewing method not only enhances the taste of the tea but also fully releases the distinctive aroma and nutritional components of Pu'er tea. This article will provide you with a detailed guide on how to correctly brew Pu'er tea cake, allowing you to enjoy a rich cup of Pu'er tea at home. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Preparation Before starting to brew Pu'er tea, you need to prepare the following tools and materials: Pu'er tea cake Tea knife or tea needle Teapot (Yixing clay pot or gaiwan recommended) Teacup Sieve (optional) Kettle for boiling water Water (mountain spring water or purified water recommended) Step One: Loosening the Tea First, use a tea knife or tea needle to gently loosen the tea cake. When loosening the tea, be mindful of the force applied to avoid breaking the tea leaves. Start from the edge of the tea cake and slowly loosen it along the texture of the leaves, removing an appropriate amount of tea. Typically, 5-8 grams of tea per brewing is sufficient. Step Two:…

    Before brewing tea, you can pre-warm the cup. When brewing, avoid filling the cup with water, pour out the water quickly, and don't let the tea leaves steep in hot water for too long. These are all details in the process of brewing tea. Regardless of what type of tea you're brewing, there are three key elements to pay attention to: the amount of tea used, the water temperature, and the brewing time.     Three Practical Techniques for Brewing Tea     1. Amount of Tea: There is no uniform standard for how much tea to use each time. This mainly depends on the type of tea, the size of the teaware, and the consumer's drinking habits.     There are many types of tea, and the amount used varies depending on the type. For example, when brewing general black or green teas, about 3 grams of dry tea leaves are placed in a cup with 150-200 milliliters of boiling water. If drinking Pu'er tea, 5-10 grams are used per cup. The most tea used is for Oolong tea, where each serving is typically 1/2 to 2/3 of the teapot's capacity.     2. Brewing Water Temperature: For high-quality green teas, especially those with delicate buds and…

If you're looking for a drink that's both delicious and healthy, flower water infusion tea is definitely a great choice. This natural beverage not only helps to relax the body and mind but also has many benefits. This article will introduce you to the various advantages of flower water infusion tea and teach you how to make it easily. (Image source: network, delete if infringement) What is Flower Water Infusion Tea? Flower water infusion tea is a type of tea made by infusing various flowers, such as chrysanthemum, rose, jasmine, and others, which have been dried. These flowers are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, greatly benefiting health. Flower water infusion tea not only has vibrant colors and a pleasant aroma but also provides a natural sweetness without the need for added sugar. The Benefits and Effects of Flower Water Infusion Tea The benefits and effects of flower water infusion tea are varied and include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Boosting Immunity Many flower teas, such as chrysanthemum tea and rose tea, are rich in vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that helps to strengthen the immune system and resist colds and other infections. 2. Improving Digestion Certain…

Many tea lovers may wonder when brewing tea, "Should I leave the lid on or off after pouring the infusion from a teapot or gaiwan?" In fact, whether it's a gaiwan or a teapot, whenever the question arises about leaving the lid off or on, there are typically two schools of thought: the "Lid-Off School" and the "Lid-On School." Members of each school often have strong opinions and can get into heated debates. 1. Reasons for Keeping the Lid On To Prevent Loss of Aroma Putting the lid on is to prevent the excessive dispersion of the tea's aroma. With the lid and gaiwan in a relatively closed state, it helps to gather the tea's aroma within the gaiwan, making it easier to appreciate the lid's aroma. 2. As the Saying Goes, "Good Tea Can Withstand Stewing" If the quality of the tea is good enough, covering it with a lid won't affect it. This can also be a way to test the quality of the tea. If the taste isn't affected, it suggests that it's a good tea. 3. Facilitates Faster Release of Inner Substances When brewing aged teas or coarser leaves, keeping the lid on helps maintain the…

Sheng Pu'er tea requires water at 100°C for brewing. Sheng Pu'er tea is a direct representation of Yunnan large-leaf sun-dried green tea. It is characterized by its rich inner quality, ample tea essence, and tightly rolled leaves. To fully release its aroma and inner qualities, it needs to be brewed with water at 100°C, making the tea soup fuller, crisper, and richer. The unique and full-bodied large-leaf sun-dried green tea has a strong character and ample tea essence, with tightly rolled leaves. Its excellent inherent qualities require water at 100°C to bring out its best. High-temperature water fully captures its rich flavor and aged aroma. High temperature complements the flavor and aroma perfectly. It is ideal for the quick extraction of tea flavors, and high temperature here means water above 95°C. Coarse and aged Pu'er brick teas, compressed teas, and aged Pu'ers are best brewed with boiling water. Brewing Techniques for Sheng Pu'er Tea 1. Tea Quantity The optimal tea-to-water ratio for Pu'er tea is 1: (20~30), but you can adjust according to your taste preferences. 2. Water Temperature Newly produced Sheng Pu'er tea has not been aged, so it contains abundant active substances. The water temperature for brewing should…

Tea soothes the spirit and calms the mind, embodying the myriad facets of life and the ebb and flow of time. It is an indispensable “spiritual sustenance” in the lives of Chinese people.China has a vast array of tea types, which can be categorized into six main categories based on their degree of fermentation: Green Tea, Yellow Tea, White Tea, Oolong (or Qing) Tea, Black Tea (which refers to what is known as Red Tea in the West), and Dark (or Hei) Tea. Given the seasonal changes from spring's warmth, summer's heat, autumn's coolness, and winter's cold, there are specific teas that are best suited for each season according to climatic conditions. 01Seasonal Tea Drinking Spring — Flower Tea: With its slightly sweet and cool nature and fragrant aroma, flower tea helps to dispel the cold accumulated in the body during winter, promotes the circulation of qi and blood, and strengthens liver function. Common flower teas include osmanthus tea, jasmine tea, and magnolia tea. Summer — Green Tea: Slightly bitter but with a hint of sweetness and a cool nature, green tea is effective in relieving heat and thirst, clearing heat and dampness, calming the heart, and treating diarrhea and…

China's tea culture has a long and rich history, with the six types of tea being its essence. Understanding the brewing methods and characteristics of each type not only enhances the joy of tasting tea but also allows you to better appreciate the unique charm of the leaves. Today, we will discuss the brewing methods and characteristics of the six major types of tea: green tea, black tea (known as red tea in the West), oolong tea, white tea, yellow tea, and dark tea. (Image source: network; delete upon request) Green Tea Green tea is unfermented tea that retains more natural substances and nutrients, resulting in a fresh color and a delicate aroma after brewing. Characteristics: Green tea leaves are tender and green, the infusion is yellowish-green, the taste is fresh and refreshing, often with floral or chestnut-like aromas. Brewing Method: The most suitable water temperature for brewing green tea is 80-85°C. Take about 3 grams of tea leaves, place them in a glass cup, pour hot water over them, and steep for 1-2 minutes. You can refill the cup up to three times, ensuring that each infusion fully releases the tea's aroma. (Image source: network; delete upon request) Black…

Why is Water Temperature So Important for Lapsang Souchong? Lapsang Souchong is a unique type of black tea, beloved by tea enthusiasts for its distinctive aroma and flavor. However, brewing Lapsang Souchong is not as simple as pouring hot water; the temperature plays a crucial role. The right temperature maximizes the release of the tea's aroma and taste, allowing you to enjoy a perfect cup of black tea. (Image source: network, delete upon request) The Optimal Water Temperature for Brewing Lapsang Souchong The optimal water temperature for brewing Lapsang Souchong is typically between 90°C and 95°C. This temperature range fully releases the aromatic compounds and polyphenols in the leaves, resulting in a richly fragrant and full-bodied tea. If the water is too hot, it can destroy the delicate compounds in the leaves, leading to a bitter taste; if the water is too cold, it cannot adequately extract the active ingredients, making the tea bland and tasteless. (Image source: network, delete upon request) How to Control the Water Temperature Use a Thermometer: The most direct method is to use a thermometer to ensure the water temperature is between 90°C and 95°C. Observe the State of the Water: If you don't have…

Green tea should not be brewed with boiling water at 100°C. Green tea is an unfermented tea that retains the natural components and green hue of the fresh leaves. Using boiling water can cause an overly rich release of nutrients from the green tea, potentially destroying some of these nutrients, and diminish its value for drinking. What is the Suitable Water Temperature for Brewing Green Tea? The water temperature for brewing green tea should be controlled between 80 to 85°C. Green tea is an unfermented tea made by picking tender buds and leaves, then undergoing processes such as fixation, shaping, and drying. This preserves the natural substances and green hue of the fresh leaves, which are delicate in nature. If the water temperature is too high during the brewing process, it can destroy the nutrients in the green tea, causing the flavor to become excessively bitter and astringent. Additionally, this may result in a too concentrated tea infusion, which could be burdensome for the body after consumption. Green tea can be brewed both hot and cold. When cold-brewing green tea, the water temperature should be around 4°C (ambient temperature), and the tea should be refrigerated for 6 to 8 hours…

Dark tea is named for its black appearance when finished. It is one of the six major categories of tea and is a post-fermented tea. The main production areas are in Hunan, Hubei, Shaanxi, Anhui, Sichuan, Yunnan, and other regions. Traditional dark tea is made from mature raw dark tea leaves, which are primarily used as the main ingredient for compressed teas. Can dark tea be paired with milk? Dark tea contains rich vitamins and minerals, while milk has a high content of proteins and minerals. Combining dark tea with milk is not only nutritious but also very healthy. Therefore, it is possible to brew dark tea with milk. In Northwest China, many people like to mix dark tea with milk and add a moderate amount of salt, creating a cup of milk tea with a distinctive Western Chinese flavor! It's really convenient and simple! When brewing dark tea with milk, note that boiling water or hot tea should not be used to mix with the milk, as this can cause the milk to curdle and reduce the nutritional value. It is recommended to wait until the dark tea has cooled to between 60-80°C before adding the milk. This will…

White tea is best brewed with water at 80-85 degrees Celsius. As a slightly fermented tea, using moderately hot water can better activate the aroma and flavor of white tea. If boiling water (100 degrees Celsius) is used, it may damage the tea leaves to some extent, affecting both the taste and nutritional value of the tea. Therefore, it is recommended to use water heated to 80-85 degrees Celsius when brewing white tea. Brewing Temperature for New White Tea The ideal brewing temperature for new white tea is around 80 degrees Celsius, ensuring the freshness and crispness of the tea while not compromising its taste. If the water is too hot, it can destroy the vitamins in the tea leaves, reducing the nutritional value of the tea. The higher the water temperature, the stronger the taste of the tea infusion. Generally, the optimal brewing temperature for new white tea is around 80 degrees Celsius, which ensures the freshness and crispness of the tea without compromising its taste. If the water is too hot, it can destroy the vitamins in the tea leaves, reducing the nutritional value of the tea. Additionally, because the tea infusion color is darker, care should be…

Yunnan Golden Needle Tea, as a representative of Yunnan black teas, is beloved by tea enthusiasts for its golden buds and unique flavor. To brew the perfect cup of Yunnan Golden Needle Tea, you need not only good quality tea but also the correct brewing method. Today, we will share detailed brewing steps for Yunnan Golden Needle Tea so that every tea lover can easily enjoy this rich and aromatic black tea. (Image source from the internet, delete upon request) Selecting High-Quality Yunnan Golden Needle Tea Before brewing, ensure you have high-quality Yunnan Golden Needle Tea. Premium Yunnan Golden Needle Tea has tightly bound strands, a golden appearance with visible downy hairs, a smooth surface with luster, and a strong floral and fruity aroma mixed with honey. Preparations To brew Yunnan Golden Needle Tea, prepare the following equipment and materials: (Image source from the internet, delete upon request) Teaware: glass teapot or white porcelain teaware, which allows for better observation of the tea liquor's color. Tea leaves: approximately 5 grams of Yunnan Golden Needle Tea per brewing. Water: choose purified or mineral water, as the quality of the water directly affects the taste of the tea liquor. Thermometer: maintain water…

Theoretically, to ensure a good taste, it's best to keep the tea and water separate. For example, when using a lidded bowl to steep tea, the first few infusions should be poured out quickly. Once the tea comes into contact with hot water, it begins to release compounds continuously. To avoid an excess of bitter substances that can affect the taste, it's important to control the brewing time and keep the tea and water separate. Why is it important to infuse and drink tea in separate steps, keeping the tea leaves and water separate? 1. Leaving tea steeping for too long can spoil the leaves, diminish their aroma, affect the taste, and cause oxidation of nutrients, resulting in a less enjoyable drinking experience. Separating the tea from the water helps to better realize the value of the tea. 2. The rate at which the internal compounds in tea are released varies. Prolonged steeping can lead to excessive release of caffeine, making the tea strong, bitter, and astringent. It can also become contaminated by environmental pollutants or even spoil, which is detrimental to health. 3. Keeping the tea and water separate allows for better control over the infusion time, preserving the…

Dark brick tea, one of China's traditional compressed teas, attracts more and more tea enthusiasts with its unique flavor and health benefits. For those new to dark brick tea, brewing it correctly might seem like a minor challenge. However, once you grasp the basics, you can easily enjoy a delicious cup of dark brick tea. This article will detail the brewing method for dark brick tea, allowing you to experience authentic tea aroma at home. (Image source: network; delete if infringement) Understanding the Characteristics of Dark Brick Tea Dark brick tea is a type of dark tea that undergoes fermentation, rolling, compression, and other processes. Its leaves are tightly pressed into a brick shape, hence the name. Dark brick tea is known for its rich aged aroma, full-bodied taste, and durability when brewed. Long-term consumption benefits the digestive system and can help reduce fat, regulate blood sugar, and act as an antioxidant. Understanding these characteristics helps in better brewing the tea. Preparing Tools for Brewing Dark Brick Tea Brewing dark brick tea requires some basic tools, including a teapot, teacups, tea tongs, a tea needle or tea knife, a tea tray, and a strainer. If you prefer traditional tea ceremony,…

White tea can typically be boiled, and by doing so with clear water, the nutrients within the leaves are released, making them easier for the body to absorb. Drinking white tea can also help in managing blood pressure and sugar levels, so it is beneficial to consume it in moderation as part of your daily routine. Is White Tea Best Enjoyed Boiled? White tea is a slightly fermented tea and a traditional type of Chinese tea, rich in nutrients such as polyphenols and vitamins. Boiling white tea is relatively simple; take an appropriate amount of white tea leaves and place them in a glass container. Then, use clear water to brew and boil the leaves for about three minutes before drinking. Moderate consumption can promote blood circulation and help lower cholesterol levels in the blood, which is beneficial for controlling blood pressure. Additionally, white tea contains active enzymes that can aid in fat metabolism when consumed in moderation, helping with the breakdown of sugars and assisting in regulating blood sugar levels. It can also help with lowering blood sugar. Furthermore, white tea contains flavonoids, which can assist in eliminating free radicals from the body. However, it is recommended to drink…

Ripened Pu'er Tea If the first life of ripened tea comes from the raw materials picked from the branches; then its second life is given through the pile-fermentation process; and its third life is during the brewing. From dehydration to rehydration, then drying again and rehydrating, a piece of ripened tea completes three rounds of tempering, revealing the most splendid part of its existence. Its mildness, richness, and sweetness bring warmth and health to people. Ripened tea can be said to be the mildest among all types of tea, due to its highest fermentation degree (excluding aged naturally fermented teas). In fully fermented teas, it has a higher fermentation time and degree than black tea, Anhua dark tea, and others. Thus, the brewing requirements for ripened tea are relatively low. As long as the quality is excellent, it can be brewed to a suitable strength and will taste good no matter how you brew it. For example, the popular method of brewing with an insulated cup in the tea community is usually reserved for ripened tea. Of course, some brewing techniques can enhance the flavor of ripened tea and also mask certain defects in its processing. Quick Brewing Methods for…

Ancient warriors all had their unique weapons that, when revealed, made it clear who they were and how powerful. Today, while we no longer live in a world of sword fights and storms, having a unique tool can still give you an edge in modern life. A photography app can instantly enhance your beauty; a kitchen gadget makes chopping and mixing easy... And tea drinking is no different. To enjoy a cup of excellent tea, one tool – the kettle – becomes our tea-brewing magic, helping us bring out the best in the tea leaves and providing a unique experience. Additionally, the pursuit of different types of kettles has gradually evolved into a kettle culture, adding more joy to our tea lives. However, with so many types of tea kettles available on the market and differing preferences, let's explore how these magical kettles can become our brewing tools. To enjoy a cup of excellent tea, one tool – the kettle – becomes our tea-brewing magic, helping us bring out the best in the tea leaves and providing a unique experience. Additionally, the pursuit of different types of kettles has gradually evolved into a kettle culture, adding more joy to our…