The Ultimate Guide to Loose Leaf Tea for Beginners

The Ultimate Guide to Loose Leaf Tea for Beginners

First off, welcome to the exciting world of loose leaf tea. I hope you're enjoying this new adventure! You must be here because you have questions. So, I'll be brief. 

It can all seem a bit daunting at first. With its array of varieties, brewing methods, and flavor profiles, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But worry not! I'm here to guide you through the basics, so you feel confident as you begin exploring.

Prefer the abridged version? Download our tea brewing cheatsheet. 

Still with us? Let's get started.

What is Loose Leaf Tea?

Loose leaf tea refers to dry tea leaves that are not pre-bagged. Instead, it’s sold in bulk, allowing you to control the quantity and steep it to your preference. Loose leaf tea is often considered superior to bagged tea due to its fresher, stronger flavor and higher quality leaves.

How Long Does Loose Leaf Tea Last?

Does loose leaf tea go bad? Like all food products, loose leaf tea can lose its freshness over time. Dry loose leaf tea is typically shelf stable for 1 to 2 years when stored properly. However, the actual shelf life can vary depending on the type of tea and how it's stored:

  • Black Tea: Around 2 years
  • Green Tea: 1 year
  • White Tea: 1 to 2 years
  • Oolong Tea: 1 to 2 years

To maintain the best flavor and aroma, store your tea in an airtight container, away from light, moisture, and strong odors. The freshness of the tea diminishes over time, but it's not harmful to drink older tea—just less flavorful.

At Route 636 Tea Co., we package our teas in 100% compostable materials as a part of our commitment to zero waste. However, we recommend repackaging your tea within six months, before our bags begin to breakdown. 

How Much Tea Do I Use?

A general rule of thumb is 1 heaping teaspoon of dry tea leaves per 7-9 oz of water. This ratio stands whether you're brewing a single cup or a full pot. Play around with the tea:water ratio to find your sweet spot.

How Long Should Tea Be Steeped?

  • Black Tea: 3-5 minutes. For a stronger flavor, let it steep longer.
  • Green Tea: 1-4 minutes. Over-steeping can make it bitter.
  • White Tea: 1-3 minutes. It’s delicate, so avoid over-brewing.
  • Oolong Tea: 3-5 minutes. Adjust according to your flavor preference.

At What Temperature Should Tea Be Brewed?

Using the correct water temperature helps bring out the best flavors in your tea.

  • Black Tea: 200-212°F (93-100°C)
  • Green Tea: 175-185°F (80-85°C)
  • White Tea: 180-185°F (82-85°C)
  • Oolong Tea: 185-205°F (85-96°C)

What Equipment Should Be Used to Brew Loose Leaf Tea?

The good news is you've got options.  

  • Tea Infuser: Ideal for single cups.
  • Tea Strainer: Perfect for larger teapots.
  • Tea Pot with Infuser: Convenient for brewing multiple cups.
  • Tea Ball or Mesh Infuser: Great for ease of use and cleanup.

Personally I prefer tea infusers for everyday use. No frills, convenient, and easy to clean. Less likely to make a mess than a tea ball.

Tea Flavor Profiles

  • Black Tea: Bold and robust with a malty, sometimes fruity flavor.
  • Green Tea: Fresh and grassy with a light, sometimes vegetal taste.
  • White Tea: Delicate and subtly sweet, with a hint of floral notes.
  • Oolong Tea: Complex, ranging from floral to creamy, with varying degrees of oxidation.

A Note on Single Origin Teas

Single origin teas come from a specific region, estate, or farm, allowing you to experience the distinct flavors that reflect their unique growing conditions. At Route 636 Tea Co., we pride ourselves on sourcing single origin teas that are flavorful, sustainable, and ethically produced. 

Shop our curated collection here

Benefits of Tea

  • General Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, can boost heart health, and improve mental alertness.
  • Drinking Organic Tea: Free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, better for your health and the environment.
  • Purchasing Sustainably Grown Tea: Supports eco-friendly farming practices that protect the environment.
  • Purchasing Ethically Produced Tea: Ensures fair wages and working conditions for workers.
  • Buying from Small Independent Growers: Supports local economies, promotes biodiversity, and often results in higher quality tea.

Final Tips for Beginners

  • Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different types and flavors of tea to find what you enjoy best.
  • Storage: Keep your loose leaf tea in an airtight container away from light, moisture, and strong odors.
  • Enjoy the Process: Making loose leaf tea can be a calming ritual. Embrace the process and take your time to savor each cup.

Starting with loose leaf tea can open up a world of flavors and experiences. With this guide, you’re well on your way to becoming a loose leaf tea aficionado. For more insights and tips, explore our other blog posts and join our community of eco-conscious tea enthusiasts. 

Cheers,
Lindsey
Founder, Route 636 Tea Co.

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