Oolong tea is one of the most popular teas across the world. From fruity to nutty, the wide flavour profile of oolong tea makes each cup special. There are many different types of oolong tea --- some almost taste like black tea, others taste like green tea and some in-between. The best thing about oolong tea is that you can re-steep it and discover new aromas and flavours with each new infusion. As a reputed  oolong tea supplier in India, we share with you tips to brew oolong tea: 

 

Note: Oolong tea is available in different oxidation levels and leaf shapes. The steeping methods may vary from one type to another. Follow the given below steps and gradually, steep the tea as per your taste. 

 

 

Step 1: Bring water to a rolling boil: 

 

When it comes to making flavourful tea, water plays an important role. Always use filtered or bottled water. Avoid using distilled water as they tend to have a flat or metallic taste. It’s best to use fresh water that has not been previously boiled. Let the water heat to 80°C to 100°C. 

 

Step 2: Choose the right teaware:

 

Oolong tea tastes better when steeped in Asian-style. Here are some common teaware you can use to steep oolong tea: 

  • Chinese traditional cups: Gaiwans are traditional chinese cups that are small and have a lid. If you love oolong tea, you must have one of these. Typically, the smallest Gaiwan cup can hold water up to 60ml. Using gaiwans, you can use oolong tea leaves at least 3 to 5 times and enjoy different flavours each time. 
  • Chinese tea pot: If you are making more than one cup of tea, a Chinese clay teapot can be useful. Chinese clay teapots preserve heat and allow you to make 2-3 small cups of tea at one  go.
  • Infuser cup: Choose infuser cups with removable infusers, so that the same leaves can be used again. Make sure that the infuser is basket-styled and not the ball-styled. The reason being basket-style infusers allow 360 degree brewing. 

 

Step 3: Use 1 teaspoon of tea for 1 cup of water 

 

Generally, for 150 to 160 ml water, use 1 teaspoon. If you have a tea scale, measure 2.5-3 gm of loose tea for one cup of water. Let it steep for 3–5 min. Enjoy the hot cup of oolong tea with the salted crackers. 

 

Note: Always read the manufacturer’s instructions for steeping time. If it’s ball-shaped oolong tea, 1 teaspoon tea leaves are sufficient. If tea leaves are large and open, take up to 2 tablespoons of tea for one cup of water.

 

Step 4: Steep for 3  to 5 minutes 

Generally, oolong tea is steeped for 3 to 5 minutes. The longer you steep, the richer and the more full-bodied taste you will get. It's best to allow leaves to steep for 2 minutes and then taste every 1 minute to get the best flavour as per your preferences. 

 

Looking for premium oolong tea?

Our premium oolong tea comes from high elevation estates and is made with leaves plucked from acclaimed clonal cultivar bushes. Oolong tea is semi-oxidised. We offer Darjeeling Turzum Monsoon Flush Oolong Tea 2022 and Darjeeling Balasun second flush oolong tea 2021.  You can buy premium quality oolong tea  based on region, flush and even gardens. We do worldwide shipping and there is no minimum order.