Brewing

Water temperature is the single most common reason home-brewed Chinese tea tastes bitter — or weak and flat. Different teas need different temperatures, and getting this right is the fastest way to better tea. This guide is your complete reference for Chinese tea brewing temperatures, plus how to hit them without fancy equipment. Why Temperature … Read more

One of the biggest differences between good whole-leaf Chinese tea and ordinary tea bags is that whole leaf can be steeped many times — each infusion tastes different, unfolding new layers of flavor. This guide explains how many times you can steep Chinese tea, and how to get the most out of your leaves. Why … Read more

Most “bad” Chinese tea is actually good tea brewed wrong. The difference between a bitter, disappointing cup and a great one usually comes down to a handful of simple mistakes. This guide covers the most common Chinese tea brewing mistakes and how to fix each one. 1. Water Too Hot (for Delicate Teas) The mistake: … Read more

Brewing Chinese tea properly is a skill — the word gongfu literally means “skill” or “effort.” But the basics are simple once you understand the three things that matter: leaf-to-water ratio, water temperature, and steep time. This guide covers everything you need to brew Chinese tea, from choosing the right temperature to the difference between … Read more

Gongfu tea (gongfu cha) is the traditional Chinese method of brewing tea with skill and care — using a small vessel, a high leaf-to-water ratio, and multiple short infusions. It’s the best way to experience the full range of flavor in quality loose-leaf tea. This guide walks you through the gongfu tea ceremony step by … Read more

The gaiwan is the most versatile tool in Chinese tea brewing — a simple lidded bowl that can brew any type of tea. It looks intimidating to beginners, but once you learn the grip, it’s easy. This guide teaches you how to use a gaiwan step by step — without burning your fingers. What Is … Read more

Pu-erh is China’s most unique tea — a fermented, aged tea with deep, earthy flavors that improve with time, like wine. It’s brewed differently from most teas, and getting it right unlocks a whole world of flavor. This guide explains what pu-erh is and how to brew it properly. What Is Pu-erh Tea? Pu-erh (普洱) … Read more

Oolong tea is often called the “in-between” tea — partially oxidized, it sits between green and black tea, with a range of flavors from light and floral to dark and roasted. It’s also the tea that shines in gongfu brewing. This guide explains what oolong is and how to brew it properly. What Is Oolong … Read more