The optimal water temperature for brewing black Tea is between 85-95 degrees Celsius. During the brewing process, the water temperature should be adjusted based on factors such as the strength and type of the tea leaves. When brewing, it's important to control the water temperature and we need to master the timing to brew black tea at different concentrations. Of course, you can also adjust the taste by adding Sugar or milk according to personal preference.

Black Tea Brewing Temperature and Time

Fresh cold water should be poured into a kettle and boiled until it reaches 100°C, which is then suitable for brewing. Fresh water that meets drinking standards contains air, which helps fully release the aroma of black tea. Overnight water, water boiled twice, and hot water from a thermos are not suitable for brewing black tea. Professional tea cans will indicate the strength of the tea, and the brewing time can be decided based on this strength, ranging from 2 minutes to 3 and a half minutes for strengths 1 to 4.

What is the Ideal Water Temperature for Brewing Black Tea?

The water temperature for brewing black tea depends on its quality! The quality of black tea is primarily determined by the raw material and processing method. Assuming standard processing, the water temperature should be chosen based on the type of raw material used to ensure the best flavor.

High temperatures amplify all aspects of black tea, both positive and negative. Therefore, for black teas made from older trees, higher water temperatures can be used. Only ancient tree black teas can withstand boiling water at 100 degrees Celsius (the boiling point varies by city). Ancient tree black teas are unafraid of high temperatures; the hotter the water, the more their signature sweetness and fragrance are activated, and the more their internal substances are extracted. These teas are known for their durability in brewing, sweet taste without bitterness, high concentration, layered flavors, and rich texture.

How Long Should You Brew Black Tea?

The typical brewing time for black tea is 3 to 5 minutes. Allowing the boiling water to steep the tea leaves for 3-5 minutes not only fully dissolves the substances within the tea but also begins to gradually lower the temperature of the tea, making it perfect for drinking. If left too long, the tea will become overly bitter.

However, the type of black tea tree can affect the required Steeping time. For small-leaved black teas, the steeping time is generally between 30 seconds and 2 minutes, while large-leaved black teas can be steeped for 3 to 5 minutes, with each subsequent infusion extending by about 30 seconds.

Choosing the right teaware enhances the visual experience. White porcelain lidded bowls are ideal for brewing black tea, as their bone-white color beautifully contrasts the red-bright tea, providing an enjoyable sight. Porcelain teaware does not absorb aromas or flavors, allowing you to fully appreciate the authentic aroma and taste of the tea, and it also aids in smelling and savoring the tea.

Steps for Brewing Black Tea

1. Boil Water

Fresh cold water should be poured into a kettle and boiled. Fresh water that meets drinking standards contains air, which helps fully release the aroma of black tea. Overnight water, water boiled twice, and hot water from a thermos are not suitable for brewing black tea.

2. Warm the Utensils

Pour boiling water into the Teapot and Teacups to warm them up. This increases the temperature of the teapot and teacups, helping the aroma to be released when the tea is brewed. Gradually pouring the water is recommended to avoid sudden changes in temperature.

3. Add Tea

For a strong tea, use 1 teaspoon (about 2.5 grams) per person. To brew the best black tea, it is recommended to use 2 cups' worth of tea (about 5 grams) to make 2 cups, which better brings out the rich flavor of the black tea and allows you to enjoy refills.

4. Brew the Tea

Pour boiling water over the tea leaves in the pot. Generally, after the water has boiled for about 30 seconds, when the bubbles form a circle the size of a one-yuan coin, it is the best time to brew black tea.

5. Brewing Time

Professional tea cans will indicate the strength of the tea, and the brewing time can be decided based on this strength, typically ranging from 10 to 20 seconds.

6. Decant the Tea

Pour the brewed tea into your favorite teacup. Choose a teacup with a shallow base and wide mouth to fully enjoy the aroma of the black tea and admire its captivating color.