Iced Tea vs Hot Tea: What Actually Changes
Pouring hot tea over ice sounds simple, but it often produces a weak, watered-down result. Brewing specifically for iced tea — or hot tea — makes a real difference in the final cup.
Brewing for Hot Tea
Hot tea is brewed at full strength with water at the correct temperature for the tea type (boiling for CTC and black tea, slightly cooler for green tea), then drunk immediately while the flavour and aroma are at their most expressive.
Brewing for Iced Tea
Because ice will dilute the tea as it melts, iced tea needs to be brewed stronger than usual — either using more leaf, a longer steep, or the "double strength" method where you brew a concentrated batch and pour it directly over ice. Cold brewing (steeping tea in cold water in the refrigerator for several hours) is another approach that produces a smoother, less tannic iced tea with a naturally milder finish.
Which Teas Work Best for Each
Strong CTC or Orthodox black tea holds its character well as iced tea, since it can handle both dilution and the addition of lemon or mint. Green tea also works well iced, especially cold-brewed, producing a lighter, refreshing drink without bitterness.
Quick Guide
Hot tea: full strength, correct temperature, drink immediately. Iced tea: brew double strength or cold-brew overnight, then serve over ice with your preferred additions.
Try our Iced Assam Tea recipe using our CTC or Orthodox range.