Brewing Tips
Tea is more than just a beverage; it is a mindful ritual that invites you to slow down and connect more deeply with the present moment.
The Gongfu Brewing (Chinese Tea Ceremony)
Gongfu Cha, which translates to "skillful tea making," is a traditional Chinese craft centered on precision and mindfulness.
Tea-to-Water Ratio
Start with 4–5 grams of Yunnan Wild Ancient Tree Black Tea for every 100–120 ml of gaiwan or small teapot. Gongfu brewing ulitizes a higher leaf-to-water ratio, which allows the tea's flavor to evolve over several infusions (5-8 brews), creating a dynamic and nuanced tasting experience.
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Water Temperature
The temperature of your water plays a crucial role in flavor extraction. Bring your water to a boil, then let it cool for about one minute. Aim for a temperature between 90–95°C (194–203°F).
Brewing Steps
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Warm Your Teaware: Pour hot water into your gaiwan or small teapot for warming. Discard this water afterward.
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Add Tea Leaves: Place the measured tea leaves in the warmed gaiwan or teapot.
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First Infusion: Pour the prepped hot water over the tea leaves, making sure they are fully submerged. Allow it to steep for 5-10 seconds.
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Pour into a Pitcher: Cha Hai (also called fairness pitcher), is used to ensure that all guests receive tea of the same strength and flavor. Make sure all tea is drained from the teapot to prevent over-extraction and ensure the tea's flavor profile is consistent.
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Pour into Teacups. Breathe in the subtle aromas before taking your first sip.
Steeping Times
You can infuse the same leaves multiple times. For Yunnan Wild Ancient Tree Black Tea, we recommend the following steeping times:
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1st–3rd infusions: 5–10 seconds
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4th–6th infusions: 10–15 seconds
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7th+ infusions: gradually increase time(Yunnan wild teas can easily go 8–10 infusions)
