Okay, I have GOT to get a thermometer. Have ruined way-y-y too many potentially good cups lately because I heat my water by the “eh, that looks about right” method. That’s why I tend to stick to black teas, I’m just too spacy and distracted to coddle quality greens and oolongs. (Got any recommendations for can’t-ruin-it-no-matter-how-hot-you-get-the-water blends/brands in either category?)

At any rate, this one started out bitter and somewhat disappointingly. However, a sloppily tossed in sugar cube has rescued it somewhat and brought back the caramel and chestnut flavor somewhat. I’ll do better next time. Maybe. I’ll really concentrate and pay attention. Oh, look…a robin!

TeaBrat

lol. I need a thermometer too

SimpliciTEA

In the green tea category, Gunpowder tends to be pretty forgiving on steeping temperature—I think in part because it is processed into those little pellets. I believe some of the really high grade green teas can also be more hassle free (Anji Baicha?). I have brewed the Yellow tea I had today (H&S Yunnan Yellow Sprout) previously at fairly high temps (I think I went to 190F, which is high for Greens/Yellows) and did not scorch it.

For my green/yellow teas I always use a thermometer, and a timer, because I am also very distract-able.

LiberTEAS

That is why I love my Breville One-touch. Don’t need to babysit the kettle or use a thermometer, nor do I need to worry about the timer anymore (except there are still quite a few teas that I brew using my gaiwan, and then I need the timer) The Breville is easily the most used appliance in the kitchen second only to the refrigerator and I don’t know how I lived without it.

gmathis

Hmmm…may have to start dropping birthday hints….

TeaBrat

I have heard the Breville is a bit difficult to clean though

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TeaBrat

lol. I need a thermometer too

SimpliciTEA

In the green tea category, Gunpowder tends to be pretty forgiving on steeping temperature—I think in part because it is processed into those little pellets. I believe some of the really high grade green teas can also be more hassle free (Anji Baicha?). I have brewed the Yellow tea I had today (H&S Yunnan Yellow Sprout) previously at fairly high temps (I think I went to 190F, which is high for Greens/Yellows) and did not scorch it.

For my green/yellow teas I always use a thermometer, and a timer, because I am also very distract-able.

LiberTEAS

That is why I love my Breville One-touch. Don’t need to babysit the kettle or use a thermometer, nor do I need to worry about the timer anymore (except there are still quite a few teas that I brew using my gaiwan, and then I need the timer) The Breville is easily the most used appliance in the kitchen second only to the refrigerator and I don’t know how I lived without it.

gmathis

Hmmm…may have to start dropping birthday hints….

TeaBrat

I have heard the Breville is a bit difficult to clean though

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Steepster “geezer;” tea barbarian who has no systematic method for storage, preparation, classification, or rating; lover of strong unleaded builders’ tea. Never quite grew up—I cut and glue, play with Legos, design kids’ curriculum, and play with fifth graders every Sunday.

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