How to Brew Tea

We share our brewing method – simply the way we feel it.
This short guide shows how to brew tea gong fu-style using a Chinese gaiwan.

Certain parameters may vary depending on your preferences.

For example: 
– If you prefer a lighter tea, reduce the dosage.
– If you like it stronger, increase it.

The same applies to brewing time:
– Extending the infusions gives a more intense cup (but fewer brews).
– Shortening them results in a milder tea with more brews.

The same logic works for water temperature – lowering it and extending the steeping time can reveal different textures and layers of the tea.
There is no single correct method. Experiment, trust your taste and enjoy the tea. 

We encourage experimentation to find what works best for you.
Our goal is to share our personal preferences and help you enhance your tea experience.

In each tea’s description you’ll find the recommended brewing temperature and dosage. Below are our basic brewing guidelines for different types of tea:

Oolong tea 

// Water Temperature: 85-95°C (185-205°F)
// Tea Quantity: 5-10 grams (1-2 teaspoons) for a 250 ml teapot
// Steeping Time: 1-1.30 minutes for the first infusion, add 30-45 seconds for each subsequent
// Infusion Counts: 5-7 times 

Oolong combines green and black tea flavors. Start with a shorter steep, increasing with later infusions.

Pu-erh Tea 

// Water Temperature: 95-100°C (203-212°F)
// Tea Quantity: 5 grams (1 teaspoon)  for a 250 ml teapot
// Steeping Time: 1-1.30 minutes for the first infusion, add 30-45 seconds for each subsequent
// Infusion Counts: 5-7 times

Pu-erh is known for its rich earthiness. The first infusion is typically discarded, then enjoy the evolving taste.

Red Tea (Black Tea)  

// Water Temperature: 95-100°C (203-212°F)
// Tea Quantity: 5 grams (1 teaspoon)  for a 250 ml teapot
// Steeping Time: 2 minutes
// Infusion Counts: 1-2 times

Red tea needs boiling water for its robust flavor. It’s usually best on the first steep.

Green Tea

// Water Temperature: 70-80°C (158-176°F)
// Tea Quantity: 5 grams (1 teaspoon) for a 250 ml teapot
// Steeping Time: 2 minutes
// Infusion Counts: 1-2 times

Green tea requires cooler water for a delicate taste. Varying flavors emerge with each infusion.

White Tea

// Water Temperature: 70-80°C (158-176°F)
// Tea Quantity: 5-10 grams (1-2 teaspoons)  for a 250 ml teapot
// Steeping Time:   1-1.30 minutes for the first infusion, add 30-45 seconds for each subsequent
// Infusion Counts: 5-7 times

White tea, known for its subtlety and elegance, demands a gentle approach. Use cooler water and a slightly longer steeping time compared to green tea to fully appreciate its delicate nuances.

Herbal Tea

// Water Temperature: 95-100°C (203-212°F)
// Tea Quantity: 5-10 grams (1-2 teaspoons)  for a 250 ml teapot
// Steeping Time: 5 minutes
// Infusion Counts: Usually 1 time

Herbal teas are best with hot water and longer steeping times, typically enjoyed in a single infusion.

Water Quality and Tips

Always use fresh, filtered water.
Experiment within these guidelines to find your ideal cup.

Happy brewing!
With love, your WAI TEA.