Preparing iced tea is fairly simple, but with a few extra steps and unfortunately a longer waiting time. We're putting together a short guide with a few tips and methods on how to brew iced tea to go together with our Iced Tea Range.

Iced Tea Brewing Methods

Hot to Cold: Simply make the tea as per normal with hot water and then leave it in the fridge overnight. The amount of tea you'll be using will of course be higher if you're wanting to fill up a whole jug. In terms of leaves to tea gained, this method isn't as effective as the long cold steep.

The Long Cold Steep: This one is probably my favourite because it uses less leaves, and even a 40g bag can take you miles. Simply put the leaves in a jug of water overnight and let them steep. It's probably best to keep the leaves in a bag, cloth, or something to separate them from the water. The only downside to this method is that you may need to experiment a little. 8-10 hour steeps are powerful things, and the first time you may overestimate the amount of tea that you need and thus create a tea that's a little too strong for you. This might not even be a problem for some of the more fruity teas such as Hibiscus Wonderland or Pina Colada but general rule of thumb would be perhaps two to three heaped teaspoons per litre.

General Iced Tea Tips

• If adding ice cubes later on, keep in mind that this will dilute the tea. If you plan on doing so, perhaps 1-2 more heaped teaspoons than you normally would.
  
  
• Organic tea generally chills very well. The more natural the better, as sometimes with non-organic teas the heat hides the taste of chemicals. Chilled will really bring out any impurities contained within.
  
  
• When making iced tea it's best to plan ahead! If you know the next couple of days are going to be particularly hot, take a few minutes to prepare the night beforehand.
  
  
• Experiment. Iced tea really is another whole world of teas and provides a completely different experience (usually good). Maybe try it with milk too? Most of the teas within our exotic range are suitable chilled, along with our classic teas including Genmaicha and even many from our herbal tea range. Try chilling some teas bought from us, you could be surprised. Just send us a message if you're unsure or need help!