Brewing
What Water Temperature Is Best for Green Tea?
Around 80°C (176°F) is a useful first temperature for many green teas. Cooler water can bring out a gentler cup; hotter water may make a delicate leaf taste sharper.
Give green tea a gentler start
Green tea is heated early in production to limit oxidation. It covers many styles, from steamed Japanese sencha to pan-fired Chinese teas, so one temperature cannot suit every leaf. The UK Tea & Infusions Association suggests about 80°C as a general starting point.
If you do not have a temperature-controlled kettle, let freshly boiled water cool briefly in the kettle or pour it into another vessel before adding the leaves. The exact wait depends on the amount of water and the container.
Taste before making a rule
Brew one small cup at your starting temperature. If the flavor is flat, try slightly warmer water next time. If it is bitter, shorten the steep or cool the water.
Some green teas have specific preparation traditions; follow the maker’s guidance when it is available. A good method gives you a cup you want to drink again, not a number you must defend.