Best Water Temperature for Tea

Best Water Temperature for Tea

Using the correct water temperature is one of the most important factors in making a good cup of tea. Water that is too hot can make tea taste bitter, while water that is too cool may not fully release the flavour.

Quick Temperature Guide

Black tea: 90–100°C
Green tea: 70–80°C
White tea: 75–85°C
Oolong tea: 80–90°C
Herbal tea: 95–100°C

Why Temperature Matters

Tea leaves release flavour, aroma, and natural compounds at different rates depending on the heat of the water. Higher temperatures extract more quickly, while lower temperatures produce a gentler infusion.

Black Tea

Black tea is robust and can handle near-boiling water. This helps bring out its full body and rich flavour.

Green Tea

Green tea is more delicate and benefits from cooler water. Using boiling water can cause bitterness and overpower its natural sweetness.

White and Oolong Tea

White and oolong teas sit between green and black teas. They benefit from moderate temperatures that allow their more subtle flavours to develop.

Simple Tip

If you do not have a temperature-controlled kettle, allow freshly boiled water to cool for a minute or two before pouring over more delicate teas.

Explore More

Explore our loose leaf tea collection and discover how small adjustments to temperature can improve your tea.