Oolong tea is known for its incredible range of flavors—from floral and light to rich and roasted. But to experience its full complexity, you need to brew it just right.

What’s the ideal water temperature? How much tea should you use? How many times can you steep it? In this guide, we’ll show you how to brew Oolong tea like a pro, whether you’re using a Gaiwan, teapot, or just brewing at home.

 

The Best Way to Brew Oolong Tea at Home

The most traditional way to brew Oolong tea is using a Gaiwan—a small lidded bowl cherished in Chinese tea culture.

When in Fujian—one of China’s most renowned tea-producing regions—it’s common to see families welcoming guests with a set of Gaiwan and cups. Brewing tea isn’t just a routine; it’s a way to connect with friends and family, an act of hospitality that reflects their love for tea and life.

Brewing Tools You’ll Need:

• Oolong Tea (loose-leaf)
• Gaiwan or a teapot
• Filtered Water
• Sharing Cup (optional)
• Small Tea Cups

Simplified Brewing: If a Gaiwan feels intimidating, don’t worry! You can achieve the same results with a cup and a lid—any lidded mug or teaware works just fine. The beauty of Oolong tea is that it adapts to your lifestyle.

Tip: We'll share short videos soon to show you how easy it is to brew Oolong tea with any tea ware—just relax and enjoy the process.

 

Tea-to-Water Ratio for Oolong Tea

The right tea-to-water ratio creates balanced flavor, but remember—brewing tea is flexible and can be adjusted to your taste:

• Standard Ratio: Use 6-8 grams of loose-leaf Oolong tea (1-2 teaspoons) per 150 ml (5 oz) of water.
• Prefer a Stronger Flavor? Add a bit more tea leaves.
• Prefer a Milder Brew? Use fewer leaves.

Tip: Start with the standard ratio and adjust as you go—there’s no fixed answer. Experimenting is part of the joy of tea brewing!

 

Brewing Temperature for Oolong Tea

The temperature brings out different qualities in Oolong tea, and you can adjust it to suit your taste:

• Light Oolong (e.g., Tie Guan Yin): Use 85-90°C (185-194°F) to preserve the floral sweetness.
• Dark/Roasted Oolong (e.g., Da Hong Pao): Use 90-95°C (194-203°F) for deeper, richer notes.

Explore and Experiment:

• Try cooler water (around 80°C) for a sweeter, softer brew—perfect for delicate Oolongs.
• Use a flash brew (shorter steeping with hotter water) for a stronger hit and immediate “ice feel” in the mouth.

Chinese Wisdom: Tea brewing is not about perfection—it’s about finding what you enjoy. Oolong tea is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to adjust the temperature and steeping time to create your ideal cup.

 

Steeping Oolong Tea: How Many Times?

High-quality Oolong tea can be steeped multiple times, and the flavors evolve beautifully:

1. 1st Steep: Quick rinse (5 seconds) to “awaken” the leaves.
2. 2nd Steep: Brew for 30-60 seconds for a full, bold taste.
3. 3rd Steep: Brew for 60-90 seconds—new floral or honey notes emerge.
4. 4th-5th Steep: Increase steeping time gradually for softer flavors.

Enjoy the journey of each infusion—it’s part of the Oolong experience!

 

Why Brewing Oolong Tea Properly Matters (Benefits)

Brewing Oolong tea correctly enhances its flavor and health benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Reduces oxidative stress.
• Boosts Metabolism: Supports fat burning and digestion.
• Promotes Mindfulness: The process itself can calm the mind and help you focus.

Chinese Wisdom: In Fujian, tea brewing isn’t rushed. It’s a ritual—a time to connect, reflect, and enjoy. Brew Oolong tea regularly, even simply, and you’ll find a moment of peace in your day.

 

Step-by-Step Brewing Guide (Gaiwan & Simplified Method)

1. Warm the Gaiwan: Rinse it with hot water and discard.
2. Add Tea Leaves: Use 6-8 grams (1-2 teaspoons) of Oolong tea.
3. Rinse the Tea: Pour water over the leaves for 5 seconds, then discard.
4. First Steep: Pour hot water (85-95°C) over the leaves and steep for 30-60 seconds.
5. Serve: Pour into a sharing cup or drink directly from a teapot/mug.
6. Re-Steep: Increase steeping time gradually for each infusion.

Simplified: If you’re using a cup with a lid, follow the same steps—add tea, rinse, steep, and enjoy!

 

Brewing Oolong tea is not about complexity—it’s about enjoying the process and the evolving flavors. Whether you use a Gaiwan like families in Fujian or a simple lidded cup at home, Oolong tea rewards you with rich tastes and calming moments.

Start with 6-8 grams of tea, steep at 85-95°C, and re-brew multiple times to savor the transformation.

Ready to experience tea like a pro? Explore our premium Oolong Teas and bring this ritual into your home.

Discover Oolong Tea → Organic Tie Guan Yin