How to Make the Perfect Pot of Tea

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a properly brewed pot of tea. Whether you enjoy a classic English Breakfast, a fragrant Earl Grey, or a delicate green tea, getting the process right makes all the difference.

We have been perfecting our brews since 1902, so we know how to make a flawless cup of tea. Let us walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right tea to perfecting the brewing process.

1. Choose the Right Tea for Your Taste

Your tea experience starts with selecting the right leaves. The type of tea you choose will determine flavour, strength, and steeping time. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best teas you can try:

Black Tea – Full-Bodied & Rich

Black teas are bold and strong, perfect for those who love a robust cup. They’re fully oxidised, giving them their deep colour and intense flavour.

Try Stokes Fine Assam Tea – A classic staple, rich and malty.

Try Stokes Earl Grey Tea – Infused with bergamot for a citrusy twist.

Green Tea – Light & Refreshing

Green tea is delicate and packed with antioxidants, known for its gentle, grassy notes. It’s less processed than black tea, keeping more of its natural goodness.

Try Stokes Japanese Cherry Green Tea – A floral and sweet choice reminiscent of a Bakewell tart. 

Herbal & Fruit Infusions 

Our herbal and fruit teas offer natural sweetness, floral notes, and refreshing flavours.

Try Stokes Peppermint Tea – A soothing and refreshing herbal infusion. Offering a minty, sweet and refreshing flavour. 

Try Stokes Rooibos Tea – A fruity, creaming and vibrant option bursting with natural berry flavours that soothe the palate. 

2. Use the Best Water 

Since tea is mostly water, the quality of your water will impact the final brew. Follow these simple tips for perfectly brewed tea:

• Filtered water is best, as tap water with too much chlorine or minerals can alter the taste. Use fresh, filtered water for a cleaner brew.

• Avoid reboiling water, as this removes oxygen, leading to a flat-tasting tea. Always start with fresh water.

• Water temperature matters; different teas require different temperatures. Boiling water isn’t always ideal!

3. Choose the Right Teapot & Teaware

Using the right teapot makes a huge difference in flavour and heat retention.

• Ceramic & Porcelain: Retains heat well, perfect for black and herbal teas.

• Glass Teapots: Ideal for delicate teas like green or white, allowing you to see the colour change.

• Cast Iron Teapots: Great for keeping tea hot longer, popular in traditional brewing.

Tea Tip: Always pre-warm your teapot by rinsing it with hot water before brewing. This maintains temperature and prevents sudden cooling.

4. Measure the Right Amount of Tea

Getting the ratio of tea to water is essential for a balanced flavour.

• Loose Leaf Tea: Use 1 teaspoon per cup (or 2 teaspoons for lighter teas like white or green).

• Tea Bags: Use one bag per cup or adjust to taste.

For a full teapot, aim for the following:

• 2-3 teaspoons of loose-leaf tea per 500ml of water or 2-3 tea bags for a similar amount.

Tea Tip: Loose-leaf tea often delivers richer, more complex flavours than tea bags. 

5. Perfect Your Steeping Time

Steeping time determines the flavour and strength of your tea. Over-steeping can result in bitterness, while under-steeping makes for a weak brew.

• Stronger Tea? Steep for a little longer.

• Weaker Tea? Reduce steeping time or add more water.

6. Enhance Your Tea the Right Way

Enjoying tea plain lets the natural flavours shine, but some additions can enhance your brew:

• Milk & Sugar: Traditional for black teas like English Breakfast.

• Honey or Lemon: Adds natural sweetness and brightness, great for green and herbal teas.

• Mint or Spices: Perfect for creating unique infusions.

Tea Tip: If adding milk, pour it after the tea to avoid temperature shock, which can affect the taste.

7. Store Your Tea Properly

Tea leaves can lose their freshness and flavour if not stored correctly.

• Use an Airtight Container: This keeps the tea fresh by preventing exposure to moisture and odours.

• Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Avoid direct sunlight and humidity.

• Don’t Store Near Coffee or Spices: Tea absorbs odours easily, so keep it separate.

Tea Tip: Freshly purchased tea should be used within 6-12 months.

8. Experiment with Tea Pairings 

Tea pairs beautifully with various foods, enhancing flavours and creating a full tea experience.

• Black Tea: Perfect with breakfast foods, pastries, and hearty meals.

• Green Tea: Ideal with light dishes, salads, and sushi.

• Herbal Tea: Great with fruity desserts, nuts, and cheeses.

Tea Tip: Try Earl Grey with dark chocolate for a luxurious treat!

9. Discover the Perfect Tea for Every Mood

Tea isn’t just about taste—it can also support mood and well-being:

• For Energy: Try a bold English Breakfast or Assam tea.

• For Relaxation: Unwind with chamomile or peppermint.

• For Digestion: A ginger or green tea can help soothe digestion.

Making the perfect pot of tea is a ritual that can enhance your day and mood. Whether you enjoy a strong morning brew or a soothing evening infusion, following these steps will ensure every cup is brewed to perfection. For more information, contact a member of our team on 01522 523 548.