Quick answer

Brew Sun Moon Lake loose leaf tea at 195–205°F (90–96°C) using 1 teaspoon (about 2.5 g) per 8 oz (240 ml) of filtered water, and steep for 3–4 minutes. This temperature range draws out its natural musk and cinnamon notes without turning the cup bitter.

Why water temperature matters for Sun Moon Lake tea

Sun Moon Lake tea is a black tea, so it needs water hot enough to fully open the leaf and release its aromatic oils. Water that is too cool (below 185°F / 85°C) leaves the cup thin and flat, while boiling water (212°F / 100°C) can pull out harsh tannins and mask the tea’s delicate cinnamon edge. Aim for the 195–205°F range and let a freshly boiled kettle rest for about a minute before pouring.

What Sun Moon Lake tea tastes like

This Taiwanese black tea, also known as Ruby Black, is grown at 700 m near Sun Moon Lake. Its flavor is naturally musky and well balanced, with subtle notes of cinnamon. The body is smooth rather than astringent, so you can enjoy it without milk or sugar. Because the flavor is already complex, over-steeping is the main risk: it flattens the musk and turns the cinnamon bitter.

Adjusting for your taste and equipment

If you prefer a lighter cup, use 1 teaspoon per 10 oz (300 ml) and steep for 2–3 minutes. For a stronger brew, increase the leaf to 1½ teaspoons per 8 oz and keep the time at 3 minutes. A digital thermometer removes the guesswork, but if you don’t have one, bring water to a boil, then wait 60–90 seconds before pouring. Note that the catalog does not specify a recommended leaf-to-water ratio; the amounts here are starting points you can adjust to your palate.

Step-by-step brewing process

  1. 1. Measure the leaf: Use 1 teaspoon (about 2.5 g) of Sun Moon Lake loose leaf tea per 8 oz (240 ml) of water. If you’re brewing a larger pot, scale up proportionally. Don’t pack the spoon; a level teaspoon keeps the ratio consistent.
  2. 2. Heat the water to 195–205°F (90–96°C): Bring fresh filtered water to a boil, then let it rest for 60–90 seconds before pouring. Use a thermometer if you have one. Never pour boiling water directly onto the leaves—it will make the tea bitter.
  3. 3. Warm the teapot or cup: Rinse your teapot or mug with hot water, then discard the rinse. This keeps the brewing temperature stable. A cold pot drops the water temperature by up to 10°F, so preheating is not optional.
  4. 4. Add the leaves and pour the water: Place the measured leaves in the warmed pot or infuser, then pour the hot water over them. Cover with a lid if you have one. Leave room for the leaves to expand; don’t fill the pot to the brim.
  5. 5. Steep for 3–4 minutes: Set a timer for 3 minutes for a lighter cup or 4 minutes for a fuller body. Taste at 3 minutes to decide if you want more time. Steeping longer than 5 minutes extracts harsh tannins and hides the cinnamon note.
  6. 6. Strain and serve: Remove the leaves completely and pour the tea into your cup. Enjoy it plain to appreciate the musk and cinnamon. Don’t leave the leaves sitting in the pot—they will keep steeping and turn the next cup bitter.

Product facts

  • Sun Moon Lake Loose Leaf Tea: Grown at 700 m in Taiwan’s Sun Moon Lake region, this black tea is also known as Ruby Black and has natural musky and cinnamon notes. The mountain-grown leaf is delicate, so moderate water temperatures preserve its aromatic complexity instead of scorching it.

    Sun Moon Lake Loose Leaf Tea

    Sun Moon Lake Loose Leaf Tea