Ever wondered how to brew loose leaf tea like a pro? Well, you’re in the right place. There’s something special about taking a moment to enjoy a perfectly brewed cup of the best loose leaf tea. Here at Miles Tea & Coffee, we believe the process should be just as enjoyable as the first sip. Let us guide you through a few simple tea brewing tips that will elevate your experience and help you master the art of brewing loose leaf tea.
Great tea starts with quality leaves, dried fruits or herbs & spices. At Miles, we source only the finest loose leaf teas, inspired by our heritage and love for the country and seaside. Choosing high-quality tea ensures a richer, more flavourful cup.
Measuring your leaves correctly makes all the difference when learning how to brew loose leaf tea. Our rule of thumb is one teaspoon of loose leaf tea per cup. For those who prefer a stronger brew, adding a little extra tea is a much better option than oversteeping, which can lead to bitterness. Timing is equally important, as steeping for too long can overpower the tea, while too short a time may leave it underwhelming. Generally, green tea needs about two to three minutes, white tea requires three to four minutes, oolong tea benefits from four to five minutes, black tea is best after three to five minutes, and herbal teas flourish with five to seven minutes of steeping.
Once you have your tea, getting the water temperature just right is crucial for brewing loose leaf tea properly. Different teas require different temperatures to bring out their best flavours. For example, green tea is best brewed at around 70-80°C – any hotter and the delicate leaves can scorch, resulting in a bitter taste. White tea, with its soft, downy buds, prefers a slightly warmer range of 75-85°C to coax out its subtle sweetness. Oolong tea, a partially oxidised variety, thrives at 85-90°C, where its complex layers can fully develop. Black tea enjoys a hotter 90-100°C, allowing its bold, robust flavours to shine. Finally, herbal teas steep perfectly at 100°C, unlocking the full spectrum of their aromatic and soothing properties.
Quick tip:
If you don’t have a thermometer, simply let the water sit for a minute or two after boiling to cool slightly, depending on your type of tea mentioned above, before pouring over delicate leaves.
If you don’t have a thermometer, simply let the water sit for a minute or two after boiling to cool slightly, depending on your type of tea mentioned above, before pouring over delicate leaves.
Investing in a few simple tools can elevate the experience even further. A quality teapot, infuser, or even a simple tea strainer ensures the leaves have enough room to expand and infuse properly. At Miles, we believe that even the tools you use should reflect a love for tradition and quality. These tools, along with a little practice, will help you perfect the process and enjoy the best loose leaf tea every time.
Finally, the most rewarding step is to enjoy your moment with Miles. Once your tea is ready, pour yourself a cup, take a deep breath and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings. Whether you’re watching the waves roll in by the seaside or cosied up in the countryside, every sip is a moment of calm.
Ready to start your pro journey? Explore our collection of the best loose leaf teas here at Miles Tea and Coffee. With a heritage rooted in quality and a passion for making every cup special, we're here to help you brew the perfect pot, every time.