Temperature water:
The water temperature for brewing tea depends on the type of tea, as different varieties require specific conditions to bring out optimal flavor characteristics. Here are general recommendations for water temperature for different types of tea:
Green Tea:
- Water temperature: 70-80°C.
- Green tea is delicate, and a high temperature can lead to bitterness. Use the lower end of the range for light green teas and higher for more robust ones.
White Tea:
- Water temperature: 80-85°C.
- White tea is also quite delicate, and a lower temperature helps preserve its soft and sweet flavor profile.
Oolong and Yellow Tea:
- Water temperature: 85-90°C.(185-194°F)
- Oolong and yellow tea often require a slightly higher temperature to reveal their complex aromas.
Black-Red Tea:
- Water temperature: 90-95°C.
- Black tea is typically fuller-bodied and spicier, so a higher temperature helps extract its rich flavor qualities.
Pu'erh Tea:
- Water temperature: 95-100°C.
- Pu'er, especially shu (cooked) pu'er, benefits from a high temperature to fully develop its flavor.
- Use only pure water without additives and extraneous odors to experience the true taste of tea. Don't forget to experiment with proportions and brewing times; this will help you find the perfect balance of flavors that suits you.
How to get the maximum flavor from tea extraction?
For the best experience in getting the maximum tea flavor, use a tippod with a spill function, gaiwan or gongfu teapot.
Follow the 5-second rule. Most teas reveal their aroma and flavor within 5 seconds of brewing. Carefully observe the water temperature that is required for the type of tea you are brewing. Use a thermos to keep the water at the same temperature.
1. Rinse - Rinse the tea in the kettle. Do this quickly, getting rid of the tea from the dust. One to three seconds is sufficient.
2. Straining. Now you can make the first brewing of tea. Pour water 1 centimeter higher than the leaf and drain after 5 seconds. taste the tea.
3 strain. Pour water and add another 5 seconds to the spill. 10 seconds - drain. Taste the tea and feel the bouquet and flavor unfold.
4 strain: repeat the same process. 15 seconds. If bitterness and astringency appear, reduce the duration of the pour by 10 seconds and repeat.
In this way you can brew the tea several times and each time the flavor will open up more and more until it subsides.
Experiment with time and find your personal ideal tea strain.