Master the Art of Gaiwan Steeping
A gaiwan, meaning "lidded bowl" in Chinese, is a versatile tea vessel deeply rooted in Asian tea culture. Designed to unlock the full character of each tea, gaiwans differ from the Western method of steeping, which uses a small amount of tea leaves in a large pot. Instead, gaiwan steeping employs a higher leaf-to-water ratio in a smaller vessel, enhancing the layered flavors of various teas. From delicate white teas and fragrant oolongs to bold red teas and young sheng puerhs, this traditional steeping technique brings out the best in almost every tea variety.
What You'll Need:
- Gaiwan
- Tea cups and/or Gong Dao Bei (fairness pitcher)
- Premium loose leaf tea
- Hot water (preferably temperature controlled kettle)
- Optional: Waste bowl, tea utensils, tea tray, tea towel
1. Warm, Steam, Rinse
- Warm your teaware: Pour boiling water (adjust temperature as needed) into the gaiwan, then transfer it to the Gong Dao Bei (pitcher) and tea cups; this preps your vessels. Discard the water.
- Waking the leaves: Place the tea into your gaiwan and cover. Allow the steam to soften the leaves and bring out the aroma.
- Savor the moment: Lift the lid and take this time and connect with the tea's aromas.
- Optional rinse: For aged or tightly rolled teas, you can choose to quickly rinse the leaves with hot water to help them unfurl and unlock deeper flavor. Pour hot water over the leaves and discard the rinse immediately.
2. Steep
Pour hot water over the tea leaves, filling the gaiwan just below the rim. Cover with the lid and steep for the recommended time (see below).
Water Temperature:
- Green & White Teas: 175–185°F (80–85°C)
- Oolongs & Puerhs: 195–205°F (90–96°C)
Steeping Notes:
- Lower temperatures enhance sweetness and umami.
- Hotter temperatures draw out tannins and aromatics.
- Steeping times vary—start with a few seconds for lighter infusions and extend for a stronger brew. Experiment to find your perfect steep.
3. Pour
Pouring from a gaiwan takes practice—try using cool water first before handling hot tea.
- Lid tilt: Slightly tilt the lid to create an opening. Use a smaller tilt for small leaves and a larger gap for bigger leaves to control the flow.
- Pouring technique: Hold the gaiwan with your thumb and middle finger on the rim, and index finger on the lid. Tilt gently to pour in a steady stream.
- Heat management: Avoid placing your fingers too low—the gaiwan will be hot. Pour swiftly to prevent overheating and spills.
- Serve and sip: Pour into a Gong Dao Bei (fairness pitcher) before serving, or pour directly into cups for immediate enjoyment.
4. Sip & Repeat
Savor each sip—then steep again!
- Adjust steeping time: After the first 1–2 infusions, the tea will steep more quickly, so shorten the steeping time. By steep 3–4, extend the infusion longer to draw out deeper flavors.
- Experience the flavor evolution: With each steep, notice how the flavors, aromas, and texture changes as different compounds are released from the leaves.
Enjoy the journey of unfolding flavors, one steep at a time.
A Deeper Taste: The Art of Steeping
To fully appreciate the artistry and nuanced flavors of tea, it's important to honor its traditional preparation. Steeping tea as it is prepared in its place of origin unlocks its unique layers and subtle notes, creating a sensory journey that reveals the true character of the leaf and deepens our connection to its heritage.
- Enhanced flavor control: Short, repeated steeps allow us to savor each stage of the brewing process. As the water interacts with the leaf, different flavors and aromas emerge at each stage. These are nuances that can be missed when blended together in a single long steep.
- Sustained energy, no jitters Most of the caffeine infuses in the first 60 seconds of steeping. By stretching out the steeping process, we can spread the caffeine intake, providing a smoother, more gradual energy boost—without the sudden jolt.
- Respecting the leaf: By steeping the tea until every bit of flavor is extracted, we ensure nothing goes to waste. Given the care that goes into crafting each tea, it’s only right to make the most of every leaf.
- More time to savor every steep: The longer we steep, the more time we have to unwind and connect—with the tea, with others, and with ourselves. Who doesn't love a good excuse to slow down?
Perfect Your Steep with Our Handcrafted Gaiwans
Unlock the full flavor profile of your favorite teas and transform your tea ritual.
Unlock Deeper Flavors
Gaiwan Pairings: Teas & Accessories
Discover teas and accessories that elevate your gaiwan steeping experience.
Steep Like a Boss
Discover other steeping methods to enhance and elevate the flavor and aroma of your tea.
