Cold brew Tea is a low-temperature brewing method relative to traditional high-temperature brewing. It has the advantages of lower water temperature, fewer and slower release of tea's internal substances, less bitterness and astringency, lasting tea fragrance, and a sweet taste. During hot summers, cold brew tea is a preferred brewing method for many tea enthusiasts. So what is the correct way to brew cold brew tea? Let's find out:

The correct method to brew cold brew tea is as follows:

1. The brewing process for cold brew tea is relatively simple. First, place an appropriate amount of tea leaves in a glass cup and pour water at 75 to 85 degrees Celsius over them to briefly moisten the leaves. After three seconds, discard the water. Then, place the tea leaves in a glass bottle and fill it with mountain spring water or purified water at around 4 degrees Celsius. Place the glass bottle containing the cold brew tea in the refrigerator to chill. After 6 to 8 hours, the tea will be ready to drink.

2. When brewing cold brew tea, you need to select the right type of tea. Not all teas are suitable for cold brewing. Since constant low temperatures are used during the brewing process, choose teas such as Green Tea and Yellow Tea, which have a low degree of fermentation. Low-fermentation teas do not develop bitter or astringent flavors when cold brewed, and the longer they are brewed, the more fragrant they become.

3. Pay attention to the ratio of tea leaves to water when brewing cold brew tea. A recommended ratio is 1:50. This allows the tea leaves to fully unfurl in the water, releasing more nutrients and flavor, allowing you to appreciate the unique taste of the tea.

Differences Between Cold Extraction and Cold Brew Tea:

There are differences between cold extraction and cold brew tea in terms of preparation methods, time required, and taste.

Preparation method: Cold extraction involves using tools to extract substances from tea leaves, while cold brew tea focuses on soaking the leaves in cold water. Once the tea bag is removed, the tea can be consumed.

Time required: Cold extraction takes 10 hours or more, whereas cold brew tea takes 2 to 4 hours.

Taste and mouthfeel: Cold extraction tea has a sweeter and smoother taste compared to cold brew tea.

Cold-brewed tea has a lower catechin extraction rate and also contains less caffeine. Studies that soaked tea leaves for 24 hours found that cold brew tea has about 20% less caffeine than hot brew tea. Therefore, if you are sensitive to caffeine but still want to enjoy tea, you can opt for the cold brew method and reduce the steeping time to decrease your caffeine intake.

Brewing at a lower temperature reduces the release of substances like polyphenols and caffeine, which in turn reduces bitterness and astringency and enhances the sweetness of the tea, with a lasting tea fragrance. It is recommended to control the brewing time of cold brew tea to within 3 to 5 hours and consume it promptly.