KEY POINTS FOR MAKING THE PERFCET CUP

1) WATER QUALITY

Fresh, pure water is instrumental – always use filtered tap water or bottled water.

Even the best tea will taste only as good as the water used to prepare it. Avoid distilled, mineral and soft tap water, which will weaken tea's flavor or impart a “chemical” or “off” taste.

Why is it so important? Subtle variations of pH and mineral content of the water can affect the taste and strength of the brew. Calcium is necessary to achieve full flavor, whereas magnesium and iron are detrimental. Distilled water should never be used because it lacks trace minerals and gives a flat lifeless taste. Water that is heavily treated with a water softener may also dull tea’s flavor.

2) WATER TEMPERATURE

Ideal water temperature for brewing most teas is around 195˚F. Since water boils at 212˚ F, this is just slightly under boiling. If the water is too hot, some teas may go bitter. If the water is not hot enough, the tea will taste dull and flat.

3) LEAVES BEFORE WATER

Always add the tea leaves to your cup or teapot first, and pour the water over. The act of pouring water over the tea leaves creates a little whirlpool effect that mixes the tea and water perfectly, beginning the brewing process. If you add a strainer to an already filled cup or teapot, it may overflow. Also, the tealeaves will simply float on top, rather than being fully submerged.

4) TIMING 

Over steeping can make tea taste bitter. If you prefer strong tea, do not over steep; simply use more leaves.  Refer to our brewing chart for specific timing based on tea type.

5) ROOM TO EXPAND

Tea expands 2-5 times its size in water. We recommend using strainers or bags that allow ample room for the tea leaves to expand. Large strainers provide plenty of room for the water to flow around the leaves, yielding a better, more aromatic flavor. 

6) MULTIPLE INFUSIONS

High-quality tea can be steeped multiple times. Increase steeping time 1 minute with each subsequent infusion.

7) MILK AND HONEY

Strong, Black teas taste exceptional and creamy with a touch of milk. Gentle Green and White teas may be overwhelmed by these additional ingredients. Honey is a great alternative sweetener to Black teas with milk teas as well as to the Herbal and Rooibos blends.