Tea Education & Brewing Guide

Tea Education & Brewing Guide

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to understanding, brewing, and enjoying premium loose leaf tea. Whether you're new to loose leaf tea or a seasoned enthusiast, this guide will help you unlock the full potential of every cup.

Understanding Tea Types

All true tea comes from the same plant—Camellia sinensis—but different processing methods create distinct tea categories.

White Tea - The Most Delicate

White tea is the least processed, consisting of young buds and leaves simply withered and dried in the sun.

Characteristics: Light, delicate, naturally sweet, low caffeine (5-40mg per cup)
Brewing temperature: 170-175°F (77-79°C)
Steeping time: 4 minutes

Our White Teas: Bai Mudan, Bai Long Xu, Whispers of Yen, Simply Gorgeous, Higher Ground

Green Tea - Fresh & Vegetal

Green tea is heated shortly after plucking to halt oxidation, preserving its green color and fresh character.

Characteristics: Fresh, grassy, vegetal, moderate caffeine (25-45mg per cup)
Brewing temperature: 170-180°F (77-82°C)
Steeping time: 3-4 minutes

Our Green Teas: Japanese Sencha, Lu Yu's Gift, Gross National Happiness, Misty Green, Imagination Green

Oolong Tea - Complex & Versatile

Oolong tea is partially oxidized (30-70%), occupying the middle ground between green and black tea.

Characteristics: Complex, floral to fruity to roasted, moderate to high caffeine (30-75mg per cup)
Brewing temperature: 195-200°F (90-93°C)
Steeping time: 4 minutes

Our Oolong Teas: Oriental Beauty, Thai Oolong, Golden Time of Day, Twilight Talons, Wild Smoked Oolong

Black Tea - Bold & Robust

Black tea is fully oxidized, creating its dark color, robust flavor, and higher caffeine content.

Characteristics: Bold, malty, robust, high caffeine (60-90mg per cup)
Brewing temperature: 200-212°F (93-100°C)
Steeping time: 4-5 minutes

Our Black Teas: Gloria, Audre, Toni & Zora's Tea Party, Silk Road Black Breakfast, Garden of Tangiers, Cocoa Day

The Perfect Brew: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Use Fresh, Filtered Water

Water quality directly affects tea flavor. Use fresh, filtered water—avoid distilled or previously boiled water.

Step 2: Heat Water to the Right Temperature

  • White Tea: 170-175°F (77-79°C)
  • Green Tea: 170-180°F (77-82°C)
  • Oolong Tea: 195-200°F (90-93°C)
  • Black Tea: 200-212°F (93-100°C)

Step 3: Measure Your Tea

Use approximately 4 grams (1.5-2 teaspoons) of loose leaf tea per 8 oz (240ml) of water.

Step 4: Steep for the Right Time

Follow the recommended steeping time for your tea type (typically 3-5 minutes).

Step 5: Remove the Leaves

Remove the infuser or strain the tea to prevent over-steeping and bitterness.

Step 6: Enjoy Multiple Infusions

Most premium loose leaf teas are good for 2-4 infusions. Increase steeping time by 30-60 seconds with each subsequent brew.

Common Brewing Mistakes to Avoid

  • Water Too Hot: Scorches delicate teas, creating bitterness
  • Over-Steeping: Makes tea bitter and astringent
  • Too Much Tea: Creates an overly strong brew
  • Poor Water Quality: Chlorine and minerals affect flavor
  • Cramped Infuser: Leaves need room to expand fully

Essential Brewing Equipment

  • Tea Kettle: Temperature-controlled kettles are ideal
  • Infuser or Strainer: Choose one that allows leaves to fully expand
  • Teapot or Cup: Glass teapots let you watch the leaves unfurl
  • Timer: For consistent steeping times

Explore our Glass Tea Tumbler for portable brewing.

Tea Storage Tips

  • Store in airtight, opaque containers
  • Keep away from light, heat, and moisture
  • Avoid storing near strong odors
  • Most teas stay fresh for 6-18 months when properly stored

Caffeine Content Guide

  • White Tea: 5-40mg per cup
  • Green Tea: 25-45mg per cup
  • Oolong Tea: 30-75mg per cup
  • Black Tea: 60-90mg per cup

For comparison, coffee contains 95-200mg per cup.

Health Benefits of Tea

  • Antioxidants: Polyphenols and catechins support cellular health
  • L-Theanine: Promotes calm focus and mental clarity
  • Hydration: Tea contributes to daily fluid intake
  • Metabolic Support: Regular tea consumption supports overall wellness

Learn more about our sustainably sourced, chemical-free teas.

Explore Tea by Origin

Discover teas from the world's premier tea-producing regions. Learn more about our tea origins and sourcing.

Continue Your Tea Journey

Every cup is an opportunity to slow down, savor, and connect with tea's rich cultural heritage. Happy brewing!

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