Brewing guide
How to brew black tea
Black tea is fully oxidized, which gives it a deeper color and a bolder, malty or fruity flavor. It is the most forgiving style to brew and loves hot water.
General guidelinesBlack tea
- Tea 1–2 tsp
- Water 8 oz
- Temp 200–212°F93–100°C
- Steep 3–5 min
Caffeine
High caffeine
Use water just off the boil. For a stronger cup add more leaf rather than steeping longer, which mostly adds bitterness. Brisk teas like Assam take milk well. Darjeeling is best plain.
Each tea's page has its own steeping notes from the maker, so check there for the specifics.





