Different teas want different water temperatures. Too hot scorches delicate leaves and turns the cup bitter. This chart lists the targets.
| Tea | Water temp | Steep time |
|---|---|---|
| White | 160 to 185F | 2 to 3 min |
| Green | 160 to 180F | 1 to 3 min |
| Oolong | 185 to 205F | 3 to 5 min |
| Black | 200 to 212F | 3 to 5 min |
| Pu-erh | 200 to 212F | 3 to 5 min |
| Herbal | 208 to 212F | 5 to 7 min |
Cool water for green. Green and white teas turn bitter in boiling water. Let a kettle cool a minute off the boil, or stop it early.
FAQ
Why can’t I just use boiling water for all tea? Boiling water scorches delicate teas like green and white tea, drawing out excess bitterness and tannins before the desired flavors develop. Sturdier leaves like black tea and herbal tea can handle full boiling water without the same risk.
See the Tea Steeping Time Chart and the Tea Brewing Guide.