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Black tea guide

Black Tea: Steeping Times and Varieties

Black tea needs near-boiling water and a longer steep. Start at 212°F for four minutes, then adjust the next cup to taste.

Water temperature212°F
Steep time4:00
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Know your black tea

Assam

Bold, malty Indian black tea with a rich body. The classic breakfast tea base.

Darjeeling

Light, floral 'champagne of teas' from the Himalayan foothills. Muscatel character.

Ceylon

Bright, citrusy Sri Lankan black tea. Clean finish, versatile for hot or iced.

Keemun

Chinese black tea with wine-like fruitiness and a hint of smoke. Smooth, complex.

Brewing black tea

Full oxidation gives black tea its dark color and robust flavor. The caffeine and L-theanine combination provides steady alertness.

Boiling water extracts the full character. Start at 212°F for four minutes. For milk tea, steep longer; for straight, taste at three.

Five cups to try

  1. 1. A daily Assam

    Strong, malty cup for mornings with milk. One scoop, 212°F, four minutes.

  2. 2. A Darjeeling first flush

    Light, floral, no milk needed. One scoop, 212°F, three minutes.

  3. 3. A Ceylon iced tea

    Brew double-strength, pour over ice. Bright and refreshing.

  4. 4. A Keemun afternoon cup

    Sip straight to taste the wine-like fruit. One scoop, 212°F, four minutes.

  5. 5. A cold-brewed black

    Steep leaves in cold water 8–12 hours. Smooth, zero bitterness.

Sources: Art of Tea steeping guide. Recommendations are starting points; check your tea package for variety-specific guidance.