How to Brew Black Tea
Master black tea brewing with the right temperature, leaf ratio, and steeping time. Whether you use a gaiwan, teapot, or simple mug, this guide will help you get the best cup.
Quick Reference
Brewing Parameters
Water Temperature
95–100°C (203–212°F)
Leaf Ratio
2 g per 100 ml (Western); 4–5 g per 100 ml (gongfu)
First Steep
3–4 minutes (Western); 30–60 seconds (gongfu)
Subsequent Steeps
Add 15–20 seconds per steep
Best Vessel
Porcelain teapot or gaiwan
Water Quality
Filtered tap or spring water
Methods
Gongfu vs Western Style
Gongfu Brewing
Gongfu brewing brings out the full aroma and layered flavors of black tea. Use a small vessel, plenty of leaf, and many short infusions.
- Use more leaf and less water.
- Steep briefly, then re-steep many times.
- Best for experiencing flavor evolution.
Western Brewing
Western brewing is the easiest way to enjoy black tea with a mug or large teapot. Use less leaf, more water, and one or two longer steeps.
- Use less leaf and more water.
- Steep longer for a single strong cup.
- Simple and convenient for daily drinking.
Practice On
Great Black Tea to Brew
Dianhong Gold Needle 滇红金针
Yunnan black tea made entirely of golden buds. Rich, malty, and honey-sweet with a thick, velvety body.
Jin Jun Mei (Golden Eyebrow) 金骏眉
Premium black tea from Wuyi made entirely from golden buds. Created in 2005, it quickly became one of China's most...
Keemun (Qimen Black Tea) 祁门红茶
The 'Burgundy of teas,' Keemun is prized for its wine-like aroma and smooth, complex flavor. Created in 1875, it...
Keemun Hao Ya 祁门毫芽
Premium grade Keemun made from tender buds. Wine-like, fruity, and floral with the signature Keemun sweetness and...
Keemun Hongcha 祁门红茶
Classic Keemun black tea. Fruity, floral, and wine-like with the signature Keemun sweetness.
Yunnan Gold (Dianhong) 滇红工夫
Robust black tea from Yunnan made with large-leaf varietals, displaying abundant golden tips. Bold malty sweetness,...