How to Brew White Tea
Master white 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
80–85°C (175–185°F)
Leaf Ratio
2 g per 100 ml (Western); 5 g per 100 ml (gongfu)
First Steep
2–3 minutes (Western); 30–45 seconds (gongfu)
Subsequent Steeps
Add 15–20 seconds per steep
Best Vessel
Gaiwan or porcelain teapot
Water Quality
Soft, filtered water
Methods
Gongfu vs Western Style
Gongfu Brewing
Gongfu brewing brings out the full aroma and layered flavors of white 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 white 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 White Tea to Brew
Bai Hao Yin Zhen (Silver Needle) 白毫银针
The highest grade of white tea, made exclusively from unopened buds covered in silvery-white down. Subtle sweetness...
Bai Mudan (White Peony) 白牡丹
White tea featuring one bud and two leaves, offering more body and complexity than Silver Needle at a more accessible price.
Aged Fuding White Tea 老白茶
White tea aged for several years, developing complex herbal and medicinal notes. Traditionally valued in Fujian for...
Cangling Baicha 苍岭白茶
White tea from Cangling in Zhejiang. Delicate, floral, and refreshingly sweet with a pale golden liquor.
Fuding Shoumei 福鼎寿眉
Leafy white tea from Fuding with a robust, sweet, and slightly earthy character. Excellent for aging.
Gong Mei 贡眉
White tea made from larger leaves and fewer buds than Shou Mei. Earthy, sweet, and commonly aged for deeper flavor.