I spent $100 on water to find the BEST one for tea
I spent $100 on water to find the BEST one for tea 🍵💧
Did you know your water might be ruining your expensive tea? 😱
We keep hearing "Water is the mother of tea," so we decided to put it to the test. My team and I bought 9 different types of water (Purified, Mineral, Spring, etc.) and brewed 6 different types of tea to see which one actually tastes the best.
Here is what we found (Swipe left for the charts! 👉):
🌊 The Science: It comes down to TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) and pH.
Too many minerals = Dull flavor for delicate teas.
Zero minerals = Flat body for robust teas.
🏆 The Winners: 1️⃣ For Green & White Tea: Go for Purified Water or very soft Spring Water. You want that clean, sweet finish! 2️⃣ For Oolong & Black Tea: Natural Spring Water is king. The minerals help bring out the "body" and roast structure. 3️⃣ For Pu-erh: Spring water balances the depth perfectly.
❌ The Big No-No: Tap water (chlorine is the enemy!) and heavy mineral water for green tea.
📌 Save this post for your next grocery run so you grab the right water for your tea session!
💬 Question: What water do you usually use for brewing? Tap, filtered, or bottled? Let me know in the comments! 👇
✨ Link in bio to shop the teas we used in this test!
... Read moreUnderstanding the role of water quality in tea brewing is essential to unlocking the best flavors from your tea leaves. Water isn't just a medium; its mineral content and pH level directly influence how your tea tastes. Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) is a key factor, as it indicates the concentration of minerals in your water.
For delicate teas like green and white varieties, water with low TDS — such as purified or very soft spring water — ensures you retain the subtle, sweet notes without masking them with heavy minerals. High mineral content can dull these delicate flavors. Conversely, robust teas like oolong and black teas benefit from natural spring water, which contains moderate minerals that enhance the tea's body, texture, and complexity.
Pu-erh teas, known for their depth and earthy profile, also harmonize well with spring water because it balances minerals perfectly to highlight their unique characteristics.
Avoid tap water for brewing tea, primarily due to chlorine and other additives that can negatively affect taste, imparting unwanted odors or flavors. Similarly, water heavy in minerals should be steered clear of for green teas, as it can overwhelm their delicate aroma.
For tea enthusiasts seeking to elevate their brewing routine, sourcing the right water is as important as selecting quality tea leaves. Experimenting with different water types can help you find the precise combination that suits your palate and the tea variety.
Next time you brew, consider testing various waters and noticing the subtle or dramatic changes in aroma, mouthfeel, and finish. This knowledge empowers you to enjoy your tea at its full potential, making each cup a satisfying experience. Remember, water truly is the mother of tea — choosing wisely makes all the difference.