Learn the best brewing methods for green, black, white, oolong, pu-erh, yellow tea, and tisanes. This follow-up to our Types of Green Tea post will help you achieve the perfect flavor every time.
In our previous post on Types of Tea, we explored the unique varieties and flavors of one of the world’s most beloved teas. But knowing your tea is only half the journey — the real magic happens in the brewing process. The right method can elevate your tea from ordinary to extraordinary, bringing out its full aroma, taste, and health benefits.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ideal brewing techniques for each type of tea, from water temperature to steeping time, so you can master the art of tea-making at home.
Green Tea Brewing Guide
Water Temperature: 75–80°C (167–176°F)
Steeping Time: 1–3 minutes
Tip: Use cooler water to avoid bitterness. Japanese green teas like Sencha work best with shorter brewing times, while Chinese greens like Dragon Well can steep slightly longer.
Black Tea Brewing Guide
Water Temperature: 95–100°C (203–212°F)
Steeping Time: 3–5 minutes
Tip: For a bolder cup, use a longer steep time. Popular choices like Assam and Darjeeling develop complex flavors when brewed at high temperatures.
White Tea Brewing Guide
Water Temperature: 75–80°C (167–176°F)
Steeping Time: 2–5 minutes
Tip: Since white tea is delicate, longer steeping at lower temperatures draws out its sweetness without making it bitter.
Oolong Tea Brewing Guide
Water Temperature: 85–90°C (185–194°F)
Steeping Time: 3–5 minutes (multiple infusions possible)
Tip: Oolong teas can be brewed multiple times, with flavor evolving in each infusion. Rinse leaves quickly before the first brew to awaken the aroma.
Pu-erh Tea Brewing Guide
Water Temperature: 95–100°C (203–212°F)
Steeping Time: 3–5 minutes (or shorter for multiple infusions)
Tip: Always rinse pu-erh leaves with hot water before brewing to remove dust and enhance the earthy flavor.
Yellow Tea Brewing Guide
Water Temperature: 80–85°C (176–185°F)
Steeping Time: 2–3 minutes
Tip: Yellow tea is rare and delicate — avoid over-steeping to maintain its smooth, mellow taste.
Tisane (Herbal Tea) Brewing Guide
Water Temperature: 95–100°C (203–212°F)
Steeping Time: 5–7 minutes
Tip: Since herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free, they can be brewed longer to fully extract flavors from herbs, flowers, and spices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does brewing time really affect tea flavor?
Yes — steeping too long can make tea bitter, while too short a steep may result in a weak flavor.
Q2: Should I use loose-leaf or tea bags?
Loose-leaf tea generally offers fresher flavor and more nutrients, though tea bags are convenient for quick brewing.
Q3: Can I reuse tea leaves?
Yes — especially with oolong and pu-erh, multiple infusions often reveal new layers of flavor.
Final Sip
Whether you love the grassy freshness of green tea, the bold richness of black tea, or the calming aroma of herbal tisanes, brewing the right way is the key to unlocking their full potential. If you haven’t yet, check out our earlier post on Types of Teas — and then put these brewing tips into practice for your perfect cup.