The Complete Guide to Chinese Tea — Nebutea Tea Knowledge Center

The Complete Guide to Chinese Tea

From casual drinker to devoted enthusiast — everything you need to know about Chinese tea, in one place.

Explore by Tea Type

Chinese tea is broadly classified by oxidation level and processing method. Use this guide to find the style that fits your palate.

Green Tea — Unoxidized

The most widely consumed tea in China, green tea is unoxidized, giving it a fresh, grassy character. Chinese green teas are typically pan-fired (sha qing) which develops their distinctive toasty notes.

Try it: JasPearl Jasmine Pearl Green Tea — hand-scented with fresh jasmine for a floral, delicate cup.

White Tea — Minimally Oxidized

The least processed of all teas, white tea is simply withered and dried. This preserves its natural sweetness and produces a subtle, complex cup that rewards attention.

Try it: 2019 Fuding Shoumei White Tea — aged for depth and smoothness.

Oolong Tea — Partially Oxidized

Oolong ranges from 15% to 85% oxidation, creating enormous diversity. Light oolongs taste floral and fresh; dark oolongs are roasted and complex. All oolongs share a satisfying thickness that tea drinkers love.

Try these:

Black Tea — Fully Oxidized

Called "red tea" (红茶, hong cha) in China, black tea is fully oxidized, producing a rich, malty cup that ranges from brisk to sweet. Yunnan black teas like Dian Hong are particularly prized for their complexity.

Try it: CrimYun Yunnan Dianhong — organic, high-mountain Yunnan black tea with natural honey sweetness.

How to Brew Chinese Tea

There are two main approaches: the quick Western method for everyday drinking, and the more immersive Gongfu style for deeper appreciation.

Western Method (Beginner-Friendly)

  • Use 2-3 grams of tea per 200ml of water
  • Water temperature varies by tea type (see below)
  • Steep 2-4 minutes depending on preference
  • Can re-steep once or twice

Gongfu Style (Traditional Chinese)

  • Use 5-8 grams of tea per 100ml of water
  • Short steeps: 10-30 seconds per round
  • Multiple infusions: 6-12+ rounds per session
  • Allows you to experience how the tea evolves as it steeps

Water Temperature Guide

Tea Type Celsius Fahrenheit
White Tea 95 – 100°C 203 – 212°F
Green Tea 80 – 85°C 176 – 185°F
Black Tea 85 – 90°C 185 – 194°F
Oolong Tea 95 – 100°C 203 – 212°F

Note: These are general guidelines. Actual brewing temperature can be adjusted slightly based on your specific tea and personal preference.

Brewing Tools

You don't need much to start brewing great tea at home, but having the right tools makes a significant difference.

Essential: A gaiwan or small teapot, a fairness cup, and 2-3 tasting cups. For travel, a portable gongfu tea set keeps everything compact and organized.

Tea Storage Guide

Proper storage preserves flavor. The enemies of tea are light, heat, moisture, and strong odors.

  • Keep tea in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight
  • Store in a cool, dry place — not in the refrigerator unless the tea is very moist
  • Oolong and black tea keep well at room temperature
  • Green and white teas are more delicate — consider refrigeration in hot climates
  • Consume green and white teas within 1-2 years for best quality
  • Pu-erh and aged oolongs can be stored longer and often improve with age

Start Your Tea Journey

Whether you're new to Chinese tea or looking to deepen your appreciation, Nebutea offers carefully sourced teas across all major categories — each selected for quality, authenticity, and flavor.

Browse All Teas →