Cold Brew Tea 101: Your Summer Guide to the Perfect Chill
Summer is here—what’s more refreshing than a bottle of cold brew tea? Light, smooth, and naturally energizing, cold brew tea is the perfect companion for your sunny days and outdoor adventures.
🍃 What Is Cold Brew Tea?
Cold brew tea is made by steeping tea leaves in cold or room temperature water for several hours. Compared to traditional hot tea, cold brew retains the aroma of the leaves while reducing bitterness—resulting in a smoother, cleaner flavor.
It’s also super easy to make. No need for fancy teaware—just tea leaves, clean water, a bottle, and time. Whether you're heading to work, hitting the gym, or chilling at the beach, cold brew tea is your portable refreshment.
🌿 What Teas Work Best for Cold Brew?
- Green Teas: Especially pan-fired or roasted ones, like Meng Ding Gan Lu or Biluochun
- Black Teas: For those who want a richer body
- Light Oolong: Floral, fragrant oolongs like Yongchun Buddha's Hand or Tieguanyin
- Heavier Oolong: Semi-fermented teas like Oriental Beauty (Meiren Tea)
- Jasmine Green Tea: A classic floral tea infused with jasmine blossoms
Pro tip: Avoid overly smoky or roasted teas, which may not taste as smooth when cold brewed.
🧊 How to Make Cold Brew Tea (Step-by-Step)
- Choose your container: A clean glass or plastic bottle with no odors is ideal.
- Tea-to-water ratio: Use about 1g of tea for every 100–150ml of water (e.g., 3g for a 500ml bottle).
- Water choice: Go for bottled or filtered water. Cold spring water or refrigerated water works best. Avoid tap water with chlorine.
- Combine & chill: Add tea and water to the bottle, seal it, give it a light shake, and place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. Adjust steeping time to your taste.
Add edible ice cubes → layer in tea leaves → top with more ice → let it melt.
Ideal for quick cold brews: tea starts releasing flavor in just 30 minutes.
⚠️ Cold Brew Tea Tips & Warnings
1. Don't Over-Steep
Cold brew should steep for 2–8 hours depending on the tea type. Over-steeping may affect taste and nutrient quality.
2. Store Safely
Always refrigerate your tea. Try to finish it the same day you make it. If not, keep it sealed in the fridge and drink within 24 hours.
3. Know Your Body
While cold brew tea is generally smooth and gentle, it may not be suitable for everyone—especially those with sensitive digestion or low tolerance for caffeine or cold drinks.
✨ Final Thoughts
Cold brew tea isn’t just a trend—it’s a healthier, hydrating lifestyle choice that fits naturally into summer days. With no sugar, no fuss, and all the flavor, it’s a clean swap for sugary iced drinks.
When the sun’s out, keep your brew cool. One sip at a time, you’ll feel the difference.
