How to Steep Loose Leaf Tea
Loose leaf tea brews better than bagged tea — but only if you give it the right conditions. Temperature and time are the two variables that matter most. Here's a simple guide for every tea type we carry.
Black Tea
Prague Twilight · Vienna Waltz · Serengeti Serenade · Patagonia Frost
- Temperature: 205°F (96°C) — just off the boil
- Time: 3–5 minutes
- Amount: 1 tsp per 8 oz
Black teas are forgiving. A slightly cooler pour or an extra minute of steeping won't ruin the cup — though over five minutes can bring out some bitterness.
Green Tea
Himalayan Mist (Jasmine Green)
- Temperature: 175°F (80°C) — well off the boil
- Time: 2–3 minutes
- Amount: 1 tsp per 8 oz
Green tea is the most temperature-sensitive. Boiling water scorches the leaves and makes the cup bitter. Let your kettle cool for a few minutes after boiling, or pull it at around 175°F. If your infuser is still in the mug after three minutes, take it out.
Herbal, Rooibos & Tisane
Rooibos Spice · Blood Orange Hibiscus · Chamomile
- Temperature: 212°F (100°C) — full boil
- Time: 5–7 minutes
- Amount: 1–1.5 tsp per 8 oz
Herbals and rooibos are naturally caffeine-free and nearly impossible to over-steep. Full boiling water and a longer steep time brings out the best flavor. Rooibos Spice is excellent with a splash of oat milk. Blood Orange Hibiscus is stunning iced.
Yerba Mate
Tibetan Trail
- Temperature: 170°F (77°C)
- Time: 3–5 minutes
- Amount: 1 tsp per 8 oz
Yerba mate has caffeine comparable to green tea and a naturally grassy, slightly bold flavor. Brew it cooler than black tea — high heat makes it harsh. It responds well to a second steep.
General Tips
- Use filtered water. Tap water with chlorine or heavy minerals dulls even the best tea. If your tap water doesn’t taste good on its own, it won’t taste good in your cup.
- Pre-warm the mug. Fill your mug with hot water, let it sit for 30 seconds, then pour it out before adding your tea. The difference in cup temperature is noticeable.
- Don’t squeeze the infuser. Especially for green tea — squeezing releases bitter compounds from the leaves. Lift and let it drip.
- Try a second steep. Most whole-leaf teas give a good second cup at the same temperature with a minute or two longer. The second steep is often more delicate and just as interesting.