A question about Darjeelings and an introduction.

xDustinx wrote:
> My question concerns Darjeelings and the best way to brew them. I've been
> brewing mine in one of those infuser/mug things and I was wondering if
> there was a better way to do it? Would a yixing pot be helpful? Any
> help would be much appreciated. I plan to buy a second flush very soon
> and any insight would probably make the experience even better. Thanks
> a lot.

Hi Dustin,

I'm new myself. In a recent thread (mostly) about Darjeeling, Lewis
Perin said he usually uses a gaiwan. This led me to research gaiwans
and procure one. I haven't tried Darjeeling in it yet but a gaiwan
seems ideal for brewing DJ for one person, for three reasons.

1. By brewing in small quantities (4oz at a time) you can enjoy
multiple steepings easily.

2. Also because of the small quantity, it's easier to get the amount of
tea right.

3. The leaves have plenty of room to infuse.

An infuser mug shares these benefits if it's not too big, has a decent
quality infuser, and a decent lid.

Cheers,
Gavin

I strongly second gavin's gaiwan suggestion. Darjeelings, while
considered black teas by some and thus not suitable for multiple
infusions, are actually more of an in-between in body and character.
Kind of a greenish black tea, I guess. Whatever the case, I have found
through years of experience that a gaiwan is an ideal vessel for
brewing Darjeelings. They can be infused at least three time, and I
find they actually should be as the astringency melts away into
sweetness on steep number three. The gaiwan also allows you to play
with your tea, which is always alot of fun.