Why Loose Leaf Tea Is Worth It
If you've only ever used tea bags, brewing Sipsy tea for the first time is a revelation. The flavour is fuller, the aroma is richer, and the experience is entirely different. Loose leaf tea uses whole or large-cut leaves that have room to expand and release their full range of flavour compounds — something a cramped tea bag simply can't do.
At Sipsy Tea, we source premium loose leaf teas — available in 1 kg and 200g packs — so you always have fresh, high-quality tea on hand.
What You'll Need
- Loose tea (1 tsp per cup, or 2–3g)
- A tea infuser, strainer, or teapot with a built-in filter
- Fresh, filtered water
- A kettle
- Your favourite mug
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide
Step 1: Use Fresh, Cold Water
Always start with fresh cold water. Avoid re-boiling water that's been sitting in the kettle — it loses oxygen and makes tea taste flat.
Step 2: Heat to the Right Temperature
Temperature matters more than most people realise. For black teas (like BOP, FBOP, and GBOP grades), bring water to a full boil at 95–100°C. Green and white teas prefer cooler water at 70–85°C to avoid bitterness.
Step 3: Measure Your Tea
Use approximately 1 teaspoon (2–3g) of loose tea per 200ml of water. Adjust to taste — more tea gives a stronger, bolder cup.
Step 4: Steep for the Right Time
For premium black loose tea, steep for 3–5 minutes. Shorter steeping gives a lighter, more delicate flavour. Longer steeping brings out deeper, more robust notes. Experiment to find your perfect cup.
Step 5: Remove the Leaves and Enjoy
Remove your infuser or strain the tea promptly once steeping is done. Leaving leaves in too long can make the tea bitter. Pour, breathe in the aroma, and enjoy.
Tips for the Perfect Cup
- Store your tea properly: Keep loose leaf tea in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture to preserve freshness.
- Try a second steep: High-quality loose leaf teas can often be steeped a second time for a lighter, subtler cup.
- Experiment with ratios: The 1 tsp per cup rule is a starting point — adjust based on your taste preference.
- Use a pre-warmed pot or mug: Rinse your cup with hot water before brewing to maintain temperature.
Ready to Start Brewing?
The best loose leaf tea starts with the best leaves. Explore our premium 1 kg loose leaf tea for everyday brewing, or try our 200g pack if you're just getting started. Once you go loose leaf, you won't go back.