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THE ART OF STEEPING TEA
Great care is taken to create each tea’s unique character. When the temperature is suited to the
particular tea, and steeping time is perfect, tea lovers can savor and appreciate all of tea’s naturally
aromatic flavours and health benefits. Refer to the chart below for our recommendations. But
remember, tastes and teas vary; you can always adjust to your personal preference. Enjoy!
For most teas, the best recipe is 1 teaspoon (5 ml) or bag of tea per cup (250 ml) of water. Some
herbal blends can benefit from a bit more. When making a full pot, we suggest an extra teaspoonful.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF TEA
The origins of tea can be traced back nearly
5,000 years to a legendary emperor of China, an
herbalist. It is believed that leaves from twigs he
was burning floated into a kettle of boiling
water. Thus tea was born and soon flourished
throughout southern Asia. As trade routes
expanded, tea made its way to the West, and
today is enjoyed around the world.
THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF TEA
Many teas are brimming with healthful benefits
like natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Drinking any tea rehydrates the body, and its
antioxidants may offer protections against a
wide range of diseases. A cup of tea can be a
gentle start to the day, a soothing mid-afternoon
break, or a comfortable way to unwind and
relax each evening – it all adds up to a healthy
mind, body, and spirit.
TYPE
DESCRIPTION
TEMP
TIME
Green
There are many different varieties depending from which region
of the world the tea originates. Loaded with antioxidants, green
tea is touted for its health benefits. The perfect steeping time
makes or breaks this tea – over-steeping will create a very bit-
ter-tasting cup of tea. Try it iced with slices of lemon!
175°F
(79ºC)
2–3 min
(Default - 3 min)
White
While excellent alone, this delicate tea also pairs beautifully with
orange or other fruit essences. Spearmint and peppermint are
also common companions.
185°F
(85ºC)
2–4 min
(Default - 3 min)
Oolong
This handcrafted tea is an excellent base for making flavourful
tea blends. Available in a wide variety of types, ranging from
fruity to floral, this tea has similar health benefits to those of
green tea.
190°F
(87ºC)
3–4 min
(Default - 3 min)
Herbal
Tisane or herbal teas – technically are not “teas” at all. Usually
made of edible ingredients such as dried herbs, fruits, flowers,
spices, and seeds, they are typically caffeine-free alternatives to
traditional teas.
200°F
(93ºC)
4–6 min
(Default - 5 min)
Black
This tea works very well when lightened with milk or cream and
sweetened with honey or sugar. Earl Grey is a popular black tea
blend that is mixed with bergamot, giving it an orange-like note.
Enjoy first thing in the morning or for an afternoon pick-me-up.
212°F
(full boil
[100ºC])
3–5 min
(Default - 4 min)