Many tea enthusiasts understand the importance of high-quality tea leaves, but few realize that the water used for brewing is equally, if not more, crucial. This article delves into the significance of water quality in tea brewing, offering insights from historical texts and modern science. Discover how the right water can elevate your tea experience to new heights.
While the quality of tea leaves is undeniably important, the water used to brew tea plays a pivotal role in determining the final taste. According to Mr. Zhang Dafu of the Ming dynasty, "100% quality water can brew 80% quality tea leaves into a 100% quality cup of tea. On the other hand, 80% quality water can only brew 100% quality tea leaves into an 80% quality cup of tea." This statement underscores the critical role water quality plays in tea brewing.
Lu Yu, in his seminal work Cha Jing (The Classic of Tea), extensively discussed the importance of water quality. He noted that hard water, which contains high levels of minerals, is not ideal for brewing tea. Water with a pH value greater than 7 can darken the color of the tea liquor and diminish its taste.
Recent studies support these historical observations. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), water hardness is measured by the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions. Water with a hardness level above 120 mg/L is considered hard and can adversely affect the taste of tea (WHO).
| Hardness Level | mg/L (milligrams per liter) |
|---|---|
| Soft | 0-60 |
| Moderately Hard | 61-120 |
| Hard | 121-180 |
| Very Hard | >180 |
Boiling water correctly is another crucial step in tea preparation. Cai Xiang of the Song dynasty emphasized in his book Cha Lu that "To boil water is the most difficult task. Foams will show up if water is not ready. Leaves will fall to the bottom if water is over-boiled."
The quality of water used in tea brewing is as crucial as the quality of the tea leaves themselves. Historical texts and modern science both emphasize the importance of using soft water with a balanced pH and boiling it correctly. By paying attention to these details, you can significantly enhance your tea-drinking experience.
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This article has been crafted to provide a comprehensive understanding of the importance of water quality in tea brewing, enriched with historical insights and modern data.
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