Master the Art of Tea

Your comprehensive guide to the world of premium teas

Tea Types Guide

Processing Method

Steamed or pan-fired to prevent oxidation, preserving the fresh, vegetal character.

Flavor Profile

Fresh, grassy, vegetal, sometimes nutty or seaweed-like notes.

Brewing Temperature

70-80°C (160-175°F)

Caffeine Content

25-35 mg per 8oz cup

Processing Method

Fully oxidized leaves, withered, rolled, oxidized, and fired.

Flavor Profile

Robust, malty, sometimes fruity or smoky with full body.

Brewing Temperature

95-100°C (200-212°F)

Caffeine Content

40-70 mg per 8oz cup

Processing Method

Minimal processing, only withered and dried to preserve natural state.

Flavor Profile

Delicate, sweet, floral, with subtle honey and melon notes.

Brewing Temperature

70-80°C (160-175°F)

Caffeine Content

15-30 mg per 8oz cup

Processing Method

Partially oxidized, withering, rolling, oxidation, and firing.

Flavor Profile

Complex, ranging from floral to fruity to roasted, with sweet aftertaste.

Brewing Temperature

80-90°C (175-195°F)

Caffeine Content

30-50 mg per 8oz cup

Processing Method

Not technically tea – infused from herbs, flowers, spices, or fruits.

Flavor Profile

Vast range – from minty and spicy to fruity and floral.

Brewing Temperature

95-100°C (200-212°F)

Caffeine Content

0 mg (naturally caffeine-free)

Brewing Mastery

☕

Western Method

  1. Warm teapot with hot water
  2. Add 1 tsp per 8oz water
  3. Pour water at correct temperature
  4. Steep for recommended time (2-5 min)
  5. Strain and serve immediately
🍵

Gongfu Method

  1. Rinse teaware and leaves with hot water
  2. Use higher leaf ratio (1:15)
  3. Shorter steeping times (10-30 seconds)
  4. Multiple infusions (5-7+)
  5. Savor the evolution of flavors
🧊

Cold Brew

  1. Use cold or room temperature water
  2. Double the amount of tea leaves
  3. Steep in refrigerator (8-12 hours)
  4. Strain and serve over ice
  5. Add sweeteners if desired

Temperature & Timing Guide

Tea Type Temperature Western Steep Gongfu Steep
Green Tea 70-80°C 2-3 min 15-20 sec
White Tea 70-80°C 3-5 min 20-30 sec
Oolong Tea 80-90°C 3-4 min 10-20 sec
Black Tea 95-100°C 3-5 min 15-30 sec
Herbal Tea 95-100°C 5-7 min –

Health & Wellness

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or health routine.

Antioxidant Power of Tea

Tea is rich in polyphenols, particularly catechins like EGCG, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce cellular damage.

Key Takeaway: Regular tea consumption may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with oxidative stress.

Heart Health Benefits

Studies suggest that regular tea consumption may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels and improve blood vessel function.

Key Takeaway: 3-4 cups of tea daily may contribute to better cardiovascular health.

Mental Clarity & Focus

The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in tea provides a unique state of alert relaxation, enhancing cognitive performance.

Key Takeaway: Tea caffeine provides sustained energy without the jittery effects of coffee.

Tea Origins Around the World

🇨🇳 China

The birthplace of tea, with over 5,000 years of cultivation history.

Click to explore →

🇮🇳 India

Home to Darjeeling, Assam, and Nilgiri – distinct tea regions.

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🇯🇵 Japan

Masters of green tea, with unique steaming processes.

Click to explore →

🇱🇰 Sri Lanka

Formerly Ceylon, produces the world’s finest black teas.

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Perfect Pairings

Green Tea Pairing

Green Tea Pairings

  • 🥟 Japanese dumplings
  • 🍣 Sushi and sashimi
  • 🥗 Light salads
  • 🍰 Matcha desserts

Serving: Warm, not hot, in small ceramic cups

Black Tea Pairing

Black Tea Pairings

  • 🫖 Afternoon tea sandwiches
  • 🧁 Scones with clotted cream
  • 🍫 Dark chocolate
  • 🥩 Grilled meats

Serving: Hot with milk or lemon, hearty breakfast blend

Oolong Tea Pairing

Oolong Tea Pairings

  • 🦀 Seafood dishes
  • 🍧 Peach and almond desserts
  • 🧈 Butter cookies
  • 🍯 Honey-drizzled cheese

Serving: Gongfu style, multiple infusions in small cups

Learning Resources

🎥 Video Tutorials

Gongfu Tea Ceremony

Tea Tasting Masterclass

📖 Recommended Reading

  • Tea: The Chinese Drink – John Evans

    A comprehensive guide to Chinese tea culture

  • The Art of Tea – Hattori Sōei

    Japanese tea ceremony traditions and philosophy

  • Tea: History, Terroirs, Varieties – Kevin Gascoyne

    Scientific exploration of tea origins and profiles