Tea Brewing Tips for a Better Cup

Get the water temperature right

Temperature is one of the biggest factors in how your tea tastes. Delicate green and white teas prefer water below boiling, around 70 to 80 degrees, so they stay sweet rather than turning bitter, while black and herbal teas enjoy a full rolling boil.

If you don't have a variable-temperature kettle, simply let boiled water rest for a minute or two before pouring over green teas. That short pause makes a real difference in the cup.

Mind your quantity and timing

As a general guide, use about one teaspoon of loose leaves per cup and adjust to taste. Steeping time matters just as much: green teas often need only two to three minutes, black teas three to five, and many herbal blends can steep longer to draw out their flavour.

Over-steeping is a common cause of bitterness, so use a timer until you get a feel for it. Taste as you go and you'll quickly learn your own preferences.

Little habits that lift every brew

Give your leaves room to move by using a roomy infuser, basket or teapot so they can fully unfurl and release their flavour. Fresh, good-quality water helps too, as tea is mostly water after all.

Finally, store your tea in an airtight container away from light, heat and strong odours. Well-kept whole leaves stay fresher for longer and reward you with a better cup right to the last spoonful.

Frequently asked questions

What water temperature should I use for tea?

Use water below boiling, around 70 to 80 degrees, for delicate green and white teas, and a full boil for black and herbal blends.

How long should I steep tea?

Green teas usually need two to three minutes, black teas three to five, and many herbal blends can steep longer, so taste as you go to suit your preference.

How much loose leaf tea should I use per cup?

Start with about one teaspoon of leaves per cup, then adjust up or down until you find the strength you enjoy most.

Why does my tea taste bitter?

Bitterness is usually caused by water that's too hot or steeping for too long, so lower the temperature or shorten the steep for delicate teas.