How to Brew Scented Tea
Master scented 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
80–90°C (175–195°F)
Leaf Ratio
2 g per 100 ml (Western); 4–5 g per 100 ml (gongfu)
First Steep
2–3 minutes (Western); 30–45 seconds (gongfu)
Subsequent Steeps
Add 10–15 seconds per steep
Best Vessel
Glass mug or gaiwan
Water Quality
Soft, filtered water
Methods
Gongfu vs Western Style
Gongfu Brewing
Gongfu brewing brings out the full aroma and layered flavors of scented 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 scented 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 Scented Tea to Brew
Jasmine Dragon Pearl 茉莉龙珠
Hand-rolled green tea pearls scented with fresh jasmine blossoms over multiple nights. Watch the pearls unfurl to...
Jasmine Dragon Pearls 茉莉龙珠
Hand-rolled jasmine tea pearls that unfurl as they steep. Intensely fragrant, sweet, and soothing with a clean finish.
Chrysanthemum Pu'er 菊花普洱
Ripe pu'er blended with chrysanthemum flowers. Earthy, cooling, and soothing with a gentle floral lift.
Gui Hua Oolong (Osmanthus Oolong) 桂花乌龙
Oolong tea scented with sweet osmanthus flowers. The natural apricot-like sweetness of osmanthus pairs beautifully...
Jasmine Silver Needle 茉莉白毫银针
White tea Silver Needle base scented with jasmine. Combines the delicacy of white tea with the fragrance of jasmine.
Jasmine Snow Buds 茉莉雪芽
Delicate jasmine-scented white tea buds. Light, floral, and naturally sweet with a creamy mouthfeel.