How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Tea

Water

Use freshly drawn water, ideally filtered, and avoid re-using the water that is already in the kettle as this will have become oxygenated and will impact the taste of the tea. 

Cup

Metal will affect the taste of the tea as it is a porous material meaning that it will retain different flavours and aromas, but if you use a porcelain cup then this will allow all of the flavours to remain in the tea and the aromas to escape out of the top of the cup.  

Temperature

For a black tea the best temperature to brew your tea at is 95ºC-98ºC whereas for green tea it is slightly lower at 80ºC-85ºC.  The reason for this is that different teas release their compounds at different temperatures.  If green tea is brewed at a higher temperature this will scorch the tea leaves, leaving a bitter taste as opposed to slightly floral, earthy and sweet.  

Time 

For majority of teas the optimum time to brew is between 3-5 mins but it is recommended to always read the label.  For herbal teas in particular you may want to brew teas for longer, even up to 10 mins if whole ingredients are used.

Milk

It is always best to add milk last, this is to allow for the leaves to infuse fully.  Adding milk prematurely will halt this infusion making a weak brew overall.  

Loose Leaf

Place 1-2 teaspoons of loose tea into a tea strainer, put the strainer into your cup, then pour properly heated water directly over the leaves. If using a teapot, measure 1-2 teaspoons per 250ml.