1. Choice of Utensils

We recommend using a set of white porcelain cups for Gongfu Tea brewing. This way, you can enjoy the fragrant aroma of Tieguanyin during the brewing process and also admire the elegant posture of the leaves as they unfurl in the water and the clarity of the tea liquor.

2. Water Temperature Control

The temperature of the water used to brew Tieguanyin is very important. The right temperature helps to release the aroma, taste, and the intrinsic compounds contained within the tea.

Tieguanyin from high-altitude tea regions and of premium quality should be brewed with nearly boiling water (around 100°C) to bring out its inherent flavors. For ordinary Tieguanyin, you can lower the water temperature to around 95°C.

3. Amount of Tea

How much tea should you use when brewing Tieguanyin? It depends on your preference for strength. We suggest using about 7-8 grams of Tieguanyin tea leaves, which can be steeped seven or more times. As a family dedicated to Tieguanyin, our star product, Shan Guo Xiang, comes in 8.35g per serving, making it an excellent choice for lovers of Tieguanyin.

4. Brewing Method

Before brewing, warm up the cup with hot water, then add 7-8g of dry Tieguanyin tea leaves. After rinsing the tea to awaken it, slowly pour water along the sides of the white porcelain Gaiwan or glass cup to avoid damaging the delicate hairs on the surface of the leaves and to ensure a clear and bright tea liquor.

5. Steeping Time

After the initial rinse, slowly pour boiling water into the cup. Let the Tieguanyin steep for about 10 seconds. Before pouring the tea (known as “pouring out the soup”), wait for approximately 25-30 seconds. For subsequent infusions, reheat the water to boiling before brewing.

6. Water for Brewing

High-quality mineral water or spring water is recommended for brewing, with soft water (low in minerals) being ideal. This will help to enhance the activity and freshness of the Tieguanyin.

Office Brewing Method:

With your dry Tieguanyin tea and hot water ready, follow these three simple steps:

1. Rinse the Tea:

To quickly bring out the flavor of Anxi Tieguanyin, start by rinsing the tea. To do this, place the dry tea leaves in the container and pour boiling water over them, then quickly pour it out.

2. Brew the Tea:

After rinsing the tea, proceed to brew it. Pour boiling water over the tea, cover the cup, and the first infusion can be poured after 10-20 seconds to avoid oversteeping.

3. Timing:

For the second infusion, extend the steeping time slightly. Using this method, you can typically get 6-8 infusions before needing new tea leaves.

With these steps, you can easily enjoy delicious Tieguanyin!