You may have heard of cold-brew coffee, but have you ever heard of cold-brew tea? This effortless method couldn't be more straightforward - simply immerse your tea leaves in cold water, allow them to infuse overnight in the fridge, with the result, a refreshing, flavourful chilled tea that's perfect for summertime sipping. 

We're excited to share everything we love about this slow yet extraordinary brewing method. Read on below to learn more about the benefits of cold brewing and how you can prepare this delicious drink at home. 

What's the difference between iced tea and cold brew tea?

As the name suggests, the difference between iced tea and cold brewing is the temperature of water used to brew the tea. To make iced tea, you typically start by infusing tea with hot water, then pouring over ice. This method can sometimes lead to a watery, diluted brew that compromises the flavour of the tea. 

What makes cold brewing different is the slow infusion of tea, usually overnight or up to 12 hours in cold water. This process allows more complex flavour notes and aromas to develop, all while preventing the release of bitter-tasting tannins that are extracted towards the end of hot steeping. The result is a balanced, easy-to-drink tea that's smooth, refreshing, and calming. 

What are the benefits of cold brew tea?

• Cold brewed tea contains less caffeine. Cold water is less effective in extracting caffeine, meaning the caffeine level of cold-brew tea can be half or even two-thirds of its hot brew counterparts. Cold brewing is also believed to preserve more antioxidants found in tea leaves. 

• Cold brewing tea reduces the bitterness and astringent flavor that usually comes with hot-brewing, allowing more natural sweetness to shine. We find that most teas don't require any additional sweeteners to be added. 

• The cold brewing method can be used for all kinds of tea. Whether you favour green, black or herbal tea, all varieties can be enjoyed with this simple method. Furthermore, many often find themselves loving a tea when it's cold brewed, when they aren't fond of it hot - or vice versa. Don't be afraid to try something new! 

• There are many fun ways to jazz-up your cold brew tea! Amid summertime, plenty of delicious ingredients can enhance your brew, such as fruit, fresh herbs, slices of citrus, and perhaps even a little honey or maple to sweeten if you desire. 

• Cold-brew tea is a wonderful way to keep more hydrated, especially in these warmer months. The herbal varieties, in particular, can be a fantastic alternative to water. We encourage you to prepare various teas and have them ready and waiting in your fridge. 

How to make cold brew ice tea:

To make cold brew ice tea, all you need is tea, water, and time. It really is that simple! Follow our simple method below to make cold brew tea at home. 

1. Add 8 tbsp of loose-leaf tea into a large jar or our large tea pot ideal for iced tea. 
2. Top with 1.2L room-temperature water. 
3. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8-12 hours. 
4. Strain out the tea leaves and pour over ice if you desire. 

Enjoy!

Makes 1 litre (about 5 serves).

Cold brew tea will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.