Cloudy Valley, Formosa tea

There are countless varieties of tea ware, each with its own name and specific use, which can be overwhelming to learn.
But no worries! This article introduces the essential tools you need. With just one set, you’re ready to start brewing tea!

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Clay Teapot:

Equipment Set:
Clay teapot + Fairness cup (pitcher) + Small tea cups

Method:

1. Place tea leaves in the clay teapot.
2. Add water.
3. Steep for a set amount of time.
4. Pour the tea into the fairness cup.
5. Pour tea from the fairness cup into small tea cups and enjoy.

Tip: Clay teapots retain heat well, making them suitable for teas that require high temperatures, such as roasted or heavily oxidized teas like oolong or black tea.

Examples:
Clay Teapot

Fairness Cup (Tea Pitcher)

Small Tea Cups

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Gaiwan (Lidded Bowl):

Equipment Set:
Gaiwan + Fairness cup (pitcher) + Small tea cups

Method:

1. Place tea leaves in the gaiwan.
2. Add water.
3. Steep for a set amount of time.
4. Pour the tea into the fairness cup.
5. Pour tea from the fairness cup into small tea cups and enjoy.

Tip: Gaiwans require skill and practice. Beginners may find it easy to get burned by steam or the hot vessel. Gaiwans are well-suited for teas like green tea that need lower temperatures.

Examples:
Gaiwan (Lidded Bowl)

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Mug:

Equipment Set:
Mug 1 (for brewing) + Mug 2 (as both fairness cup and tea cup)

Method:

1. Place tea leaves in Mug 1.
2. Add water.
3. Steep for a set amount of time.
4. Pour the tea into Mug 2 and enjoy.

Tip: While mugs seem simple, they can yield excellent tea if used correctly. Using a filter can make brewing more convenient. Additionally, you can enjoy the changing aromas during the brewing process.

Examples:
Mug

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Special Cases:

1. Open Lid Brewing:
   • Regardless of whether you’re using a gaiwan, bowl, or clay teapot, if the lid is left open, you should use the mug brewing timing in the app.
2. Teapot with Ventilation Holes:
   • For teapots with lids featuring many air holes, also use the mug brewing timing in the app.

Reasoning: In both cases, the lack of a closed lid prevents heat retention, making the brewing conditions similar to those of a mug.