Dial In the Perfect Brew: A Guide to Tea Temperatures

If you're serious about elevating your tea game, water temperature is one of the easiest—and most effective—ways to make a big difference. Along with tea quality and steeping time, the temperature of your water plays a key role in unlocking the true flavor of your favorite brews. Most of us are guilty of pouring boiling water over every kind of tea. It’s quick and easy—but not ideal for every leaf. Don’t worry—this guide won’t ruin your past cups, just make your next ones better.

Why Does Water Temperature Matter When Brewing Tea?

Tea leaves are sensitive. Steeping them at the wrong temperature can lead to bitterness or blandness. The trick? Brew each tea at its optimal temperature range for the best possible taste. Here’s your go-to guide:

Black Tea 
Temperature: 93°C - 100°C (200°F - 212°F) 
Great For: Moonless Maple and Lemon Burst
These teas can handle the heat. Use boiling water to bring out their rich, bold flavors.

Oolong Tea 
Dark Oolong: 85°C - 91°C (185°F - 195°F) 
Light Oolong: 77°C - 85°C (170°F - 185°F) 
Great For: Campfire Orange
Oolong teas fall between green and black. Use lower temps for greener leaves, and hotter water for darker ones.

Green Tea 
Temperature: 68°C - 85°C (155°F - 185°F) 
Great For: Buddha Mind 
Green tea is delicate—don’t boil it. Lower temperatures preserve its smooth, grassy flavor.

White Tea 
Temperature: 82°C - 88°C (180°F - 190°F) 
Great For: Blueberry Delight 
White tea is light, floral, and best when steeped gently. Avoid over-heating to keep its natural sweetness.

Herbal Tea 
Temperature: 100°C (212°F) 
Great For: Hibiscus Flower Power or Lavender Breeze 
Since herbal teas are caffeine-free and not made from tea leaves, they need boiling water to extract flavor from herbs and spices.

No Temp-Control Kettle? No Problem.

You don’t need fancy gear to brew great tea: 

1. Boil the water.
2. Let it cool. Most kettles drop 5–10°C (10–20°F) every minute.
3. Check with a thermometer (or get used to the timing). 
4. Make a note—you’ll remember it next time.

Final Sip: Steep Smarter

Getting your tea temperature right is an easy upgrade that makes every cup better. Whether you're sipping green, white, or a bold black, your tea deserves precision. So go ahead—brew like you mean it.

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