When it comes to brewing tea, the method you choose can completely transform the flavor, aroma, and overall experience. The two main techniques are 冷泡 (cold brewing) and 热泡 (hot brewing). Each method unlocks different qualities in the tea leaves, making certain types of tea more suitable for one style over the other.

热泡 (Hot Brewing)
This is the most traditional and common method. It involves using hot water, typically between 80°C to 100°C, to steep the tea leaves quickly. This high temperature rapidly extracts the flavors, aromas, and 咖啡因 (caffeine) from the leaves.

哪些茶类适合热泡？ (Which teas are suitable for hot brewing?)

  • 红茶 (Black Tea): The robust and malty flavors of black tea are best released with hot water. It's perfect for a classic, comforting cup.
  • 乌龙茶 (Oolong Tea): Hot brewing helps to unfurl the tightly rolled leaves and release their complex floral and fruity notes.
  • 普洱茶 (Pu-erh Tea): The earthy, deep character of pu-erh tea requires hot water to fully develop its unique profile.
  • 白茶 (White Tea): While it can be cold-brewed, delicate white tea also reveals subtle, sweet flavors when brewed with cooler hot water (around 80°C).

冷泡 (Cold Brewing)
This method uses cold or room temperature water and a much longer steeping time, usually several hours in the refrigerator. The slow extraction process results in a tea that is remarkably 更甜 (sweeter) and 更顺滑 (smoother), with much less 苦涩味 (bitterness). It also typically contains lower levels of 咖啡因 (caffeine).

哪些茶类适合冷泡？ (Which teas are suitable for cold brewing?)

  • 绿茶 (Green Tea): Cold brewing is excellent for green tea. It highlights its sweet, grassy notes and minimizes any astringency, creating a very refreshing drink.
  • 白茶 (White Tea): The delicate and sweet nature of white tea shines in cold brew, making for a subtly fragrant and delicious beverage.
  • 一些轻发酵乌龙茶 (Some lightly oxidized Oolong Teas): These oolongs can produce a very aromatic and flavorful cold brew.
  • 花草茶 (Herbal Tea): Herbal teas like chamomile or mint are fantastic for cold brewing, resulting in a naturally sweet and soothing infusion.

如何选择？ (How to choose?)
The choice between cold brew and hot brew ultimately depends on your personal preference, the season, and the type of tea you have. For a quick, aromatic, and warming cup, 热泡 is the way to go. For a refreshing, smooth, and less bitter drink, especially in warm weather, 冷泡 is an excellent choice. Experiment with both methods to discover your favorite way to enjoy your tea.