Steven Twining is the tenth generation of the famous tea family and is the only Twining family member that is working in the business today. Since the age of 8, he has developed a keen interest in tea and consumes 9 cups of it per day. Here are his tips for making the perfect cup.
1. Always fill the kettle with fresh cold water to maximize the oxygen in the water. It is the oxygen in the water that draws the flavour out of the tea leaves.
2. Use the right teapot or mug such as plain earthenware, porcelain or glass. Never use aluminum or chipped enamel teapots and cups as they will affect the taste of the tea.
3. Warm the pot or mug with a little hot water. This will ensure the tea stays hot for a longer period of time.
4. When making a pot of tea, use the old tea merchant’s rule of thumb - one teaspoon of tea (or tea bag) for each person and one for the pot. However, when preparing a pot of Twinings Infusions (such as Twinings Lemon and Ginger) use only one tea bag per person.
5. Pour the water onto the tea as soon as it boils. Don't allow the water to over boil. This removes the oxygen from the water and leaves the tea tasting flat and dull.
6. Finally, let the tea stand and brew for three to five minutes. If the strength is not to your liking, adjust the amount of tea you use - not the brewing time. Brewing the tea for too long will result in a bitter taste. When making a cup of green tea, use water just under the boil and brew for two to three minutes only. Over brewing of green tea may cause some bitterness.
7. Once brewed, stir and serve.
