When it comes to the tools used for brewing Tea leaves, Purple Clay Pots are often the first to be mentioned. The tea typically brewed in these pots is of the Pu'er or Oolong variety. However, Purple Clay Pots can also be used for other types of tea. Let's take a look.

Generally, Purple Clay Pots are used for brewing Pu'er and Oolong tea. This is because both Pu'er and Oolong require high water temperatures (usually between 95-100 degrees Celsius) and need to be steeped at this temperature for an extended period to develop their characteristic flavors. A Purple Clay Pot has good heat retention properties, which helps maintain the high temperature needed to preserve the aroma of Oolong and Pu'er teas. As such, a Purple Clay Pot is usually the preferred choice for brewing these two types of tea. However, other teas can also be brewed using a Purple Clay Pot.

Black Tea (Red Tea)

Black tea (red tea) has a lingering fragrance, is sweet in taste, and produces a deep red liquor. For brewing black tea, consider using a Purple Clay Pot made from clay such as purple clay, red clay, or jiangpo clay. The pot should have a taller and narrower shape. Since black tea requires longer insulation time, a 250 ml Purple Clay Pot that is tall and narrow is ideal. Control the amount of tea leaves: around 7 grams per brewing, adjusting according to the size of the pot. Additionally, the water temperature for brewing black tea should not be too high, ideally between 80-95 degrees Celsius.

Green Tea

A 250 ml Purple Clay Pot with a flat belly and wide mouth is a good choice for brewing green tea. Green tea does not benefit from prolonged exposure to high temperatures, so the tea utensils must dissipate heat quickly. Keep the water temperature around 85 degrees Celsius, pour out the tea quickly after brewing, and avoid long steeping times.

Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is also known as kung fu tea due to its unique brewing method, which differs from other types of tea. There are strict specifications for the teaware used.

The requirements for the pot include: Clay type: purple clay, green clay, and red clay are all acceptable, with red clay being the most standard. Zhu clay, in particular, has a higher fineness and density, which reduces the loss of aromatic compounds in highly fragrant teas. A flat and round Zhu clay pot fired at a high temperature retains heat well and enhances the aroma, making it an excellent companion for Oolong tea. Capacity: Choose a pot based on the amount of tea you are brewing, generally ranging from 80-200 ml.

Yellow Tea

Considerations for selecting a Purple Clay Pot for yellow tea: Clay type: All clay types, including purple clay, green clay, and red clay, are suitable. Pot shape: Wide lid and mouth are preferable. Capacity: Over 200 ml.

Dark Tea

Dark tea has a rich liquor and a darker color. When choosing a pot, consider using a large Purple Clay Pot made from purple clay or duan clay. The capacity should ideally be over 200 ml, with a taller body preferred. Purple clay and duan clay have a looser texture, which is beneficial for absorbing any undesirable storage flavors in dark teas. The exchange effect also improves the taste of the tea. However, ripe Pu'er, due to its very dark liquor, may cause duan clay to discolor, so a trial period is recommended before continuous use. Coarse-grained kiln white sesame sand is the best choice for aged Pu'er. A small, light yellow pear-shaped pot made from Ben Shan green clay, specifically designed by Ge Tao, is ideal for brewing aged Pu'er, especially those with a lotus fragrance, as it can fully reveal the depth and true flavor of ripe Pu'er.