Rule #1: The quality of the water you use matters. We recommend using filtered or distilled water for best results.
Rule #2: If you are a subscriber to our email list, we are assuming you do not need to hear this... but loose leaf tea is just better!
The tea that comes in tea bags is what is leftover after all the loose leaf tea companies select full, beautiful leaves from the batch. Bagged tea is just the dustings.
With loose leaf tea you get fuller flavor and nutrient value. Also, loose leaf tea can be steeped multiple times, whereas tea bags are often spent after the first use.
Rule #3: Pay attention to temperature and steep times. Some teas are quite delicate and steeping them in overly hot water can make them taste astringent or ashy. When tea is under steeped, you'll have poor extraction. Our labels have recommend steep times - use these as a reference when preparing a cup.
When it comes to temperature, we recommend using steaming, but not boiling water. If you have a temperature controlled kettle (we do not sell these, but highly recommend them), you can follow these guidelines for tea types...
White Tea, Green Tea, & Yerba Mate:
170 - 180 ℉
Black Tea, Oolong Tea, Pu Erh Tea, & Guayusa:
190 - 205 ℉
Rooibos & Fruit Tisanes:
195 - 210 ℉
Rule #4: Use the right tools. Our absolute favorite infuser for hot tea is our Stainless Steep Infuser. Why? It is big and roomy so the tea leaves have space to open up and release their flavor and nutrients. It is also durable and easy to clean. Check it out...
Rule #5: Use the right amount of tea. As a general rule, use 1 - 2 teaspoons per 8 ounces of water. For more exact measurements, refer to the label on your tin or jar of tea.
Keep this Perfect Cup of Tea Spoon in your tea cabinet for easy measuring...
Rule #6: Establish your preparation preferences for each type of tea. For example, some teas are wonderful with cream, but a highly acidic ingredient, like hibiscus, can cause cream to curdle in your cup.
Some teas are wonderful sweetened, while others are best served plain and simple.
This is a personal preference, but don't give up on a blend if you don't love it the first time you try it! Even changing from hot to iced can have a huge impact on your appreciation of a certain blend.
Rule #7: Choose the right vessel. Do you want something heavy duty that will hold the temperature of your tea, like cast iron, or do you prefer glass so you can see the color of your tea as it steeps? Do you just want something that looks pretty on your countertop so you never feel like you need to put it away? Whatever you preference is, having the right tools is essential.
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