1. Choice of Utensils

We recommend using a Kung Fu tea white porcelain cup set. This allows you to enjoy the fragrant aroma of Tieguanyin while it is being brewed and to appreciate the graceful unfolding of the leaves in the water and the clarity of the tea liquor.

2. Water Temperature Control

The water temperature when brewing Tieguanyin is very important. Suitable water temperature helps release the aroma, taste, and internal components of the tea.

Tieguanyin from high-altitude tea regions and of superior quality should be brewed with nearly boiling water at around 100°C, which helps to release its internal substances. For ordinary Tieguanyin, the water temperature can be reduced slightly to around 95°C.

3. Amount of Tea

How much tea should be used when brewing Tieguanyin? The amount depends on personal preference for strength. We suggest using 7-8 grams of Tieguanyin tea leaves, which can be steeped seven times or more. As a family dedicated to Tieguanyin, Shan Guo Yin Yi's star product, Shan Guo Xiang, has each serving weighing 8.35g, making it a top choice for lovers of Tieguanyin.

4. Brewing Method

Before brewing, warm the cup with hot water, then add 7-8g of dry Tieguanyin tea leaves. After a brief rinse to awaken the tea, slowly pour the water along the sides of the white porcelain Gaiwan or glass cup. This prevents damage to the fine hairs on the surface of the leaves and avoids them rolling about too vigorously, ensuring that the tea liquor remains clear and bright.

5. Steeping Time

After the initial rinse, slowly pour boiling water into the cup. Allow the Tieguanyin to steep for approximately 10 seconds before pouring the tea (referred to as “pouring out the infusion”). Keep the tea steeping for about 25-30 seconds before pouring. For subsequent infusions, reheat the water to boiling before brewing.

6. Water for Brewing:

It is best to use high-quality mineral water or spring water for brewing, with soft water (low mineral content) being ideal. This will help bring out the vitality and fresh fragrance of Tieguanyin.

Brewing Method for the Office

With dry Tieguanyin tea leaves and hot water ready, you only need three steps:

1. Awaken the Tea Leaves:

To get the flavor of Anxi Tieguanyin quickly, start by awakening the tea leaves. This involves placing the dry tea leaves in the container and briefly pouring boiling water over them, then quickly discarding the water.

2. Brew the Tea:

After awakening the tea leaves, you can proceed to brew the tea. Pour boiling water over the leaves, cover the cup, and the first infusion can be poured after 10-20 seconds to avoid oversteeping and changing the taste.

3. Steeping Time:

For the second infusion, you can increase the steeping time. Generally, this method allows for 6-8 consecutive infusions before new tea leaves are needed.

With these steps, you can easily enjoy delicious Tieguanyin!