Why does tea sometimes taste bitter?

Tannins in tea are what give the tea the slightly astringent taste, especially when the tea is of poor quality or is brewed strong.

Tea
The tea plant (Camellia sinensis) is an example of a plant with a naturally high tannin content. Green tea leaves are unquestionably a major plant source of tannins, as they not only contain the tannic and gallic acid groups, but also a proanthocyanidin (a type of flavanol) named prodelphinidin. When any type of tea leaf is steeped in hot water for an excessively long time period it brews a "tart" (astringent) flavor that is characteristic of tannins (and other components). New varieties of Camellia sinensis have been specifically bred for a lower tannin content. If ingested in excessive quantities, tannins inhibit the absorption of minerals such as iron into the body. This is because tannins are metal ion chelators, and tannin-chelated metal ions are not bioavailable.

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The basic requirements for steeping tea are minimal — of course, tea; water; and a proper vessel. After choosing a high-quality tea, the next variable is water. Tap water can be tainted by other tastes and odors, which will eventually reveal themselves in the prepared cup. Therefore, it is recommended that whenever possible, tea preparers use filtered or bottled water.

The length of time the tea is steeped is relative to the type, color, and grade of tea. Black tea should be steeped for three to five minutes, oolong for four to seven, and green tea between two and three minutes. White teas need only two minutes, while a first-flush Darjeeling should be steeped between two and five minutes.

Remember that steeping tea is not an exact science and the ratio between water and tea is determined according to taste. Encourage your customers to experiment with tea to create the proper ratio and brewing time for their tastes.

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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tannin#Tea

http://www.sevencups.com/tea-making.php

http://www.teasource.com/merchant2/m...Code=Preparing

ENJOY!!!!!!!!!

LoVe,
Rhapsody -