Tea Brewing Temperature & Timing Guide
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Tea Brewing Temperature & Timing Guide
“We are Tea Perfectionist, where the art and science of tea converge to create the perfect cup.”
🌡 Why Temperature Matters
Heat controls extraction. Lower temperatures highlight sweetness and aroma; higher temperatures emphasize body and tannins. Too hot can pull bitterness; too cool can leave tea thin. Aim within the recommended range for the style in your cup.
⏳ How Time Shapes Flavor
Steeping time determines strength and structure. Shorter times = lighter, sweeter, more aromatic cups. Longer times = fuller body and astringency. Adjust in small steps (15–30s) to dial in your ideal balance.
📊 Temperature & Timing Reference Chart
| Tea Type | Temperature | Steeping Time |
|---|---|---|
| White Tea | 70–80°C (160–175°F) | 2–4 minutes |
| Green Tea (pan‑fired/steamed) | 75–85°C (170–185°F) | 2–3 minutes |
| Yellow Tea | 75–85°C (170–185°F) | 2–3 minutes |
| Oolong Tea (light) | 85–90°C (185–195°F) | 3–4 minutes (or multiple short infusions) |
| Oolong Tea (roasted) | 90–95°C (195–203°F) | 3–5 minutes (or multiple short infusions) |
| Black Tea | 95°C (203°F) | 3–5 minutes |
| Pu‑erh (Shou/Sheng) | 95–100°C (203–212°F) | 2–4 minutes (rinse optional) |
| Herbal Infusions | 100°C (212°F) | 5–7 minutes |
| Matcha (whisked) | 70–80°C (160–175°F) | Whisk 15–25s |
Pro Tip: Pre‑warm your teapot or cup to stabilize brew temperature and improve consistency across infusions.
📏 Easy Ratios for Consistent Results
Use these baselines and adjust by 0.5g leaf or 15–30s time until taste clicks:
- Western style: 2–3g per 200–250ml water
- Gong fu style: 5–7g per 100–120ml with short infusions (10–30s, increasing)
- Matcha: 1–2g per 60–80ml; sift before whisking
Pro Tip: If a brew is bitter/astringent, lower temperature by 5–10°C or shorten by 20–30s. If it’s thin, add 0.5g leaf or extend 20–30s.
🔁 Multiple Infusions (Gong Fu)
Short, repeated steeps reveal layers of aroma and texture. After a quick rinse (optional), start with 10–15s, then add 5–10s per round. Ideal for oolongs and pu‑erh; also great for delicate whites and greens with careful temperature control.
💧 Water & Kettle Tips
Use clean, low‑to‑moderate mineral water. Bring to a rolling boil, then cool to target. Avoid holding water hot for hours—freshly boiled water makes livelier tea. Pour higher for oxygenation with robust teas; pour gently for delicate greens.