Longjing (Dragon Well) is one of China’s most iconic green teas, celebrated for its tender leaves, chestnut aroma, and crisp, sweet taste. Brewing it correctly unlocks its full flavor—no bitterness, just pure spring freshness. Follow this step-by-step guide for café-worthy Longjing at home.
Longjing (Dragon Well) is one of China’s most iconic green teas, celebrated for its tender leaves, chestnut aroma, and crisp, sweet taste. Brewing it correctly unlocks its full flavor—no bitterness, just pure spring freshness. Follow this step-by-step guide for café-worthy Longjing at home.
Why Proper Brewing Matters
Longjing is picked in early spring, with delicate buds that are easily damaged by boiling water or over-steeping. The right method preserves:
- Bright jade-green liquor
- Clean, vegetal fragrance
- Sweet, mellow aftertaste
- Beautiful upright unfurling leaves
What You’ll Need
- Tea: 3g premium Longjing (about 1 full teaspoon)
- Water: Low-mineral purified or spring water (avoid tap water)
- Vessel: Clear glass (200–250ml) or 120ml Gaiwan
- Kettle: For heating and pouring water
- Temperature: 80–85°C (176–185°F) — never boiling
Step-by-Step Brewing (Glass Method – Best for Beginners)
1. Warm the Vessel
Pour boiling water into the glass to pre-heat, then discard the water. This keeps the water temperature stable and awakens the tea’s aroma.
2. Add Longjing Leaves
Place 3g dry tea into the warmed glass. Gently shake to release the dry leaf fragrance.
3. Middle-Pour Technique (Recommended for Longjing)
- Fill the glass 1/3 full with 80–85°C water
- Let leaves soak for 30 seconds to “wake up”
- Slowly top up to 70% full
- Do not cover the glass (preserves freshness)
4. Steep & Enjoy
- Steep for 60–90 seconds
- Sip slowly while warm
- Leave 1/3 tea in the cup before refilling (retains flavor for next infusions)
Gaiwan Method (Traditional Gongfu Style)
- Warm Gaiwan with boiling water
- Add 4g Longjing
- Pour 85°C water along the rim to 1/3 full
- Shake gently to moisten leaves
- Fill to 7/8 full; steep 5–8 seconds
- Pour into a pitcher and serve
- Ideal for multiple infusions: 1st 5s → 2nd 8s → 3rd 10s
Pro Tips for Perfect Longjing
- Water Temperature: Too hot = bitter; too cool = weak flavor. Use a thermometer or cool boiled water for 1–2 minutes.
- Tea-to-Water Ratio: 1:50 (1g tea : 50ml water) for balanced strength.
- Infusions: Premium Longjing lasts 3–4 brews.
- Avoid: Metal cups, insulated mugs, or over-steeping.
Taste Like a Pro
A well-brewed Longjing has:
- Aroma: Fresh orchid + chestnut
- Liquor: Bright, clear yellow-green
- Taste: Crisp, sweet, vegetal, no astringency
- Leaves: Uniform, upright, and fully unfurled
Explore Our Premium Longjing Collection
Hand-picked from core Longjing growing areas, our teas are processed with traditional craftsmanship to retain peak freshness.
- Pre-Qing Ming Longjing: Ultra-tender, early spring harvest
- Rainy Season Longjing: Balanced flavor, great daily drinker
- Organic Longjing: Pesticide-free, clean and healthy
Shop now → [Longjing Tea Collection] Brew better tea, live a quieter life.