The Art of the Steep: How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Tea Every Time

More Than Just Hot Water

There is a misconception that making tea is simple. You just dunk a bag in hot water, right? Not exactly. If your Green Tea tastes bitter, you burned it. If your Herbal Tea tastes like colored water, you didn't steep it long enough.

At Blinks Emporium, we offer an extensive collection of fine teas ranging from robust Black blends to delicate Greens. To experience the complex notes of our Florence or Tower of London blends, you need to master the three variables: Dosage, Temperature, and Time.

Loose Leaf vs. Sachets

Many of our favorites, like the Agatha Christie Trio or Sally's Secret, come in both loose leaf and sachet forms.

• Sachets: These are pre-measured for the perfect cup (8 oz). They offer convenience without sacrificing quality.

• Loose Leaf: This allows the leaves to expand fully. Use 1 teaspoon per 8 oz cup. If you want it stronger, add more leaves; do not steep it longer.

1. Brewing Black Tea (Robust & Bold)

• Examples: Victorian London Fog, Salted Caramel, Earl Grey Imperial

Black tea is fully oxidized. It can handle the heat. It needs high temperatures to extract those rich, malty, or citrusy tannins.

• Water Temp: 208°F to 212°F (Full rolling boil).

• Steep Time: 3 to 5 minutes.

• Pro Tip: Do not go over 5 minutes. The tea will become astringent and dry out your mouth. If you add milk (like for the Vanilla Black), steep for the full 5 minutes to stand up to the cream.

2. Brewing Green Tea (Delicate & Fresh)

• Examples: Decaf Sencha, Capri, Organic Green

Green tea is the most misunderstood. It is unoxidized and delicate. If you pour boiling water on it, you cook the leaves. This releases bitter compounds immediately.

• Water Temp: 175°F to 180°F.

• The Hack: If you don't have a variable kettle, boil the water and let it sit with the lid off for 5 minutes before pouring.

• Steep Time: 2 to 3 minutes.

• Note: Our Organic Green with Coconut is sweet and creamy, but only if you treat it gently.

3. Brewing Herbal & Fruit Tisanes (Flavorful & Sweet)

• Examples: Cranberry Autumn, Midsummer's Peach, Raspberry Herbal

These technically aren't "tea" leaves; they are dried fruits, flowers, and spices. They are tough. They need intense heat and time to release their sugars and essential oils.

• Water Temp: 212°F (Rolling boil).

• Steep Time: 5 to 7+ minutes.

• Pro Tip: You essentially cannot over-steep herbal tea. The longer it sits, the richer the fruit flavor becomes.

4. The Iced Tea Game Changer

We offer specific blends designed for cold brewing, like the Blood Orange Fresh Brew Iced Tea and Black Currant Fresh Brew.

The Pitcher Method (For Iced Tea Pouches):

1. Place one large pouch in a pitcher.

2. Fill with 2 cups of hot water (approx 200°F).

3. Steep for 5 minutes.

4. Remove pouch and fill the rest of the pitcher with ice or cold water.

The Glass Method (Flash Chilled): If you want to ice a standard tea like Mango Black:

1. Double the amount of tea leaves (2 tsp).

2. Use half the amount of hot water (4 oz).

3. Steep for the normal time.

4. Pour the hot concentrate directly over a cup full of ice.

Elevate Your Ritual

Whether you are sipping Diamond Jubilee from a china cup or taking Yerba Mate on the go, the brewing method matters. Respect the leaf, and it will reward you with incredible flavor.

Stock up on your favorites today. Visit our facebook page to tell us which blend is your new morning staple.