The brewing temperature for Longjing tea is typically between 176°F to 185°F (80°C to 85°C). Longjing tea is a type of green tea, which is unfermented, and the tea leaves contain numerous flavor compounds that are sensitive to high temperatures. Longjing tea is known for its rich nutty aroma and fresh, crisp taste, and using water at the right temperature is crucial to bring out its best qualities.
There is some debate among tea enthusiasts about the ideal water temperature for brewing green tea, with some favoring 176°F (80°C) while others prefer 194°F (90°C). The ideal temperature largely depends on the grade and quality of the green tea you are using.
In general, the higher the quality of the green tea, the lower the water temperature you should use. The more delicate and tender the tea leaves, the lower the water temperature should be. If the water is too hot, it can scorch the tea leaves and destroy some of the delicate flavor compounds in green tea.
Excessive heat can lead to over-extraction and bitterness in the tea, as well as cause the tea liquor to turn yellow. Using water that’s too cool, on the other hand, can result in a lack of aroma and under-extraction.
For most green teas, including Longjing, as well as other high-quality green teas like Zhu Ye Qing and Xin Yang Mao Jian, a water temperature range of 176°F to 185°F (80°C to 85°C) is commonly recommended. However, it’s important to consider the specific grade and characteristics of the green tea you are brewing.
Controlling water temperature is crucial when brewing green tea, and while most people don’t use a thermometer to measure it, there are practical methods to achieve the right temperature. One common approach is to use a two-vessel method. Here’s how it works:
- Boiling Water: Start by boiling fresh water in a kettle or pot. This will bring the water to a rolling boil, which is typically around 212°F (100°C).
- “Fairness Cup”: Use a “fairness cup” or another container to pour the boiling water into. A fairness cup is essentially a secondary vessel that allows the water to cool before it’s poured over the tea leaves. The exact amount of time you let the water cool will depend on your target water temperature. In the case of green tea, you would typically let the water cool for a few minutes to reach the desired range of 176°F to 185°F (80°C to 85°C).
- High Pour, Low Tilt: When you’re ready to brew, pour the now slightly cooled water from the “fairness cup” onto the tea leaves in your teapot or teacup. It’s essential to pour the water from a higher position to allow for increased air contact, which aids in cooling the water more effectively.
By following the “high pour, low tilt” method with a fairness cup, you can easily control the water temperature to match the needs of your green tea, ensuring that it falls within the recommended temperature range for optimal flavor and aroma extraction. This method doesn’t require a thermometer and can be a practical way to brew your green tea with precision.
One practical approach is to use boiling water and let it cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the tea leaves. This can help you achieve the right temperature. If you have a temperature-controlled kettle, you can set it to the desired temperature to ensure consistency.
Ultimately, the perfect water temperature for brewing green tea may vary depending on individual preferences and the specific tea being brewed. Experience and experimentation can help you find the ideal temperature for your favorite green teas.
