Tea is more than just a beverage; it’s a journey through history, culture, and wellness. At Number 8 Tea + Co., we celebrate this journey by offering a diverse range of premium teas. Understanding the different types of tea and mastering their brewing techniques can elevate your tea experience to new heights.

The Six Main Types of Tea

All true teas originate from the Camellia sinensis plant. The differences among them arise from distinct processing methods, resulting in six primary categories:

1. White Tea: The least processed of all teas, white tea is made from young leaves or buds that are simply withered and dried. This minimal processing preserves its delicate flavor and high antioxidant content.

2. Green Tea: After harvesting, green tea leaves are quickly heated—either by steaming or pan-firing—to prevent oxidation. This process retains the green color and imparts a fresh, grassy flavor.

3. Yellow Tea: Similar to green tea but with an added step called “sealed yellowing,” where the leaves are lightly steamed and allowed to oxidize slowly, giving the tea a mellow taste and a yellow hue.

4. Oolong Tea: Partially oxidized, oolong tea falls between black and green teas in terms of flavor and color. The oxidation levels can vary, leading to a wide range of flavors from light and floral to rich and toasty.

5. Black Tea: Fully oxidized, black tea boasts bold flavors and a dark amber hue. It’s known for its robust taste and higher caffeine content compared to other teas.

6. Pu-erh Tea: This fermented tea undergoes a unique aging process, resulting in rich, earthy flavors that deepen over time.

The Art of Steeping: Unlocking Each Tea’s Potential

Proper steeping is crucial to extract the best flavor and health benefits from your tea. Here’s a guide to brewing each type:

1. White Tea

• Water Temperature: 65-70°C (150-155°F)

• Steeping Time: 1-2 minutes

• Tips: Use fresh, pure water. Avoid oversteeping to prevent bitterness.

2. Green Tea

• Water Temperature: 75-80°C (165-175°F)

• Steeping Time: 1-2 minutes

• Tips: Pre-warm your teapot or cup to maintain consistent temperature.

3. Yellow Tea

• Water Temperature: 75-80°C (165-175°F)

• Steeping Time: 2-3 minutes

• Tips: This rare tea benefits from careful attention to time and temperature to highlight its subtle flavors.

4. Oolong Tea

• Water Temperature: 80-85°C (175-185°F)

• Steeping Time: 2-3 minutes

• Tips: Oolongs can be steeped multiple times; increase steeping time with each subsequent infusion.

5. Black Tea

• Water Temperature: 100°C (212°F)

• Steeping Time: 2-3 minutes

• Tips: Ideal for those who enjoy a stronger brew. Add milk or sweeteners as desired.

6. Pu-erh Tea

• Water Temperature: 100°C (212°F)

• Steeping Time: 4-5 minutes

• Tips: Rinse the leaves briefly with hot water before the first infusion to awaken the flavors.

Herbal Teas: A World of Caffeine-Free Infusions

While not derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, herbal teas (tisanes) offer a plethora of flavors and health benefits. Common varieties include chamomile, peppermint, and rooibos.

• Water Temperature: 100°C (212°F)

• Steeping Time: 5-7 minutes

• Tips: Herbal teas are less prone to bitterness; feel free to steep longer for a more robust flavor.

Elevate Your Tea Experience with Number 8 Tea + Co.

At Number 8 Tea + Co., we are passionate about providing exceptional teas that cater to both novices and connoisseurs. Our carefully curated selection ensures that you find the perfect match for your palate.

Explore our collection and embark on a journey through the rich and diverse world of tea. Remember, the key to a perfect cup lies not only in the quality of the leaves but also in the mindfulness of the brewing process. Happy steeping!