Brewing fresh tea is an art that has been perfected over centuries, particularly in China, where tea culture is deeply rooted in tradition. However, many people, even seasoned tea drinkers, often make mistakes that negatively affect the taste, aroma, and overall tea-drinking experience. Understanding these common pitfalls can help tea enthusiasts refine their brewing techniques and enjoy a truly exquisite cup of tea.

1. Using Poor-Quality Water

Water quality is one of the most critical factors in brewing fresh tea. Many people use tap water without considering its composition, which often contains chlorine and heavy minerals that can alter the tea’s flavor. Ideally, fresh spring water or filtered water should be used to preserve the natural taste of the tea leaves. Avoid using distilled water, as it lacks minerals that help bring out the tea’s complexity.

2. Overheating or Underheating the Water

Different types of tea require different water temperatures for optimal extraction. Many people either use boiling water for all teas or fail to heat the water adequately, leading to a brew that is either too bitter or too weak.

• Green tea: 70-80°C (158-176°F)
• White tea: 75-85°C (167-185°F)
• Oolong tea: 80-90°C (176-194°F)
• Black tea: 90-100°C (194-212°F)
• Pu-erh tea: 95-100°C (203-212°F)

Using a thermometer or an electric kettle with temperature settings can help ensure the right brewing temperature.

3. Using Too Many or Too Few Tea Leaves

The amount of tea leaves used plays a crucial role in the final taste. Too many leaves can make the brew overly strong and astringent, while too few leaves result in a weak and watery tea. A good guideline is to use about 2-3 grams of tea leaves per 150 ml (5 oz) of water, but this can be adjusted based on personal preference and tea type.

4. Brewing for Too Long or Too Short a Time

Steeping time is essential in tea brewing, and different teas require different durations:

• Green tea: 1-3 minutes
• White tea: 2-5 minutes
• Oolong tea: 3-5 minutes
• Black tea: 3-5 minutes
• Pu-erh tea: 3-7 minutes

Over-steeping can cause bitterness, while under-steeping results in a weak and unflavorful brew. Using a timer can help avoid this mistake.

5. Reusing Tea Leaves Incorrectly

High-quality loose-leaf teas can often be steeped multiple times, with each infusion revealing new flavors. However, many people either discard the leaves too soon or overuse them until the tea becomes tasteless. The key is to adjust the steeping time for each subsequent infusion—adding 15-30 seconds per steep usually works well.

6. Not Rinsing Certain Tea Leaves

Certain teas, such as pu-erh and some oolongs, benefit from a quick rinse before brewing. This step removes dust and impurities while awakening the leaves, allowing them to unfurl properly during steeping. A brief 5-second rinse with hot water is typically enough.

7. Using the Wrong Teaware

Teaware significantly impacts the brewing process. Many people use inappropriate materials or shapes that alter the tea’s flavor. For example:

• Yixing clay teapots are excellent for oolong and pu-erh teas, as they absorb the tea’s essence over time.
• Glass teapots are best for delicate teas like green and white teas, allowing for visual appreciation of the leaves.
• Porcelain teapots work well for most teas, as they do not retain flavors.

Using the right teaware enhances both the brewing and drinking experience.

8. Brewing with the Wrong Water-to-Leaf Ratio

Many people make the mistake of not adjusting the tea-to-water ratio based on the type of tea and personal preference. A common guideline is:

• Light teas (green, white): 1 teaspoon per 150 ml of water
• Medium teas (oolong): 1.5 teaspoons per 150 ml
• Strong teas (black, pu-erh): 2 teaspoons per 150 ml

Balancing these proportions ensures a well-rounded brew.

9. Storing Tea Leaves Improperly

Fresh tea leaves are delicate and can lose their flavor if stored improperly. Common mistakes include:

• Storing tea in transparent or poorly sealed containers, which exposes it to light, air, and moisture.
• Keeping tea near strong-smelling foods, as tea easily absorbs odors.
• Storing tea in humid environments, leading to mold or spoilage.

The best way to store tea is in an airtight, opaque container kept in a cool, dry place.

10. Ignoring the Importance of Water Flow

When pouring water over tea leaves, the way water flows can impact the brewing process. Pouring water too aggressively can damage delicate leaves, while a slow and controlled pour allows even extraction. Many tea masters emphasize the importance of a gentle pour, especially for green and white teas.

11. Drinking Tea Immediately After Brewing

Allowing tea to cool slightly before drinking enhances its flavor. Many people drink tea immediately after pouring, missing the chance to enjoy its evolving aroma and taste. Letting it sit for 1-2 minutes can make a noticeable difference in the tea’s smoothness.

12. Not Experimenting with Different Brewing Techniques

Many tea drinkers stick to a single brewing method and miss out on the variety of experiences that different techniques offer. The Gongfu Cha method, for example, involves multiple short infusions, bringing out the tea’s complex flavors. Trying different brewing styles can open up new dimensions in tea appreciation.

13. Using Flavored or Scented Water

Some people experiment with scented or flavored water, assuming it enhances tea. However, strong scents or artificial flavors interfere with the delicate balance of fresh tea, masking its natural aroma and taste.

14. Relying on Teabags Instead of Loose-Leaf Tea

While teabags are convenient, they often contain lower-quality tea dust instead of whole leaves. Loose-leaf tea offers a richer, more complex experience, allowing the leaves to fully expand and release their flavors. Switching to loose-leaf tea can significantly improve the quality of tea drinking.

15. Forgetting the Importance of Atmosphere

Tea drinking is not just about taste—it’s also about ambiance. Rushing the brewing process or drinking tea in a chaotic environment can diminish the experience. Traditional tea culture emphasizes mindfulness, relaxation, and appreciation of nature, making tea drinking a meditative practice.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common mistakes can elevate your tea-brewing skills, helping you experience the true essence of fresh tea. By paying attention to water quality, temperature, steeping time, teaware, and storage methods, you can unlock the full potential of tea leaves and enjoy a deeply satisfying and authentic tea experience.