How to Brew Green Tea Without Bitterness

How to brew green tea without bitterness

Green tea has a fresh, clean flavour, but it can turn bitter when the water is too hot or the steep is too long. The fix is simple: use cooler water, measure the leaves and taste your tea before it over-brews.

Use cooler water

Green tea usually tastes best around 75-85C. If you do not have a temperature kettle, boil the water and let it sit for a few minutes before pouring. This helps protect the softer green tea leaves.

Keep the steep short

Start with 2-3 minutes. If the cup tastes too light, use a little more leaf next time rather than steeping much longer. More leaf builds body without pulling out as much bitterness.

Give the leaves room

Use an infuser, strainer or teapot with enough space for the leaves to open. Loose leaf green tea performs better when water can move around the leaves.

Which green tea should I try?

For a floral cup, try Jasmine Superior. For something creamy and refreshing, try Coconut Green. For a classic Chinese green tea, try Temple of Heaven.

Browse the full green tea collection or use our brewing guide for tea-by-tea starting points.