The Perfect Sencha Brewing Guide
Follow these simple steps to brew a perfect cup of Japanese sencha every time:
1. Choose High-Quality Loose Leaf Sencha
The best sencha starts with the best leaves. Look for:
- Fresh, vibrant green colour
- A delicate, grassy aroma
At Porter Hill, our sencha is sourced from Kagoshima Prefecture—famous for its clean, mellow flavour.
Other popular varieties to explore:
- Fukamushi Sencha (deep-steamed): Richer, fuller flavour with a slightly cloudy cup.
- Asamushi Sencha (light-steamed): More delicate and clear.
- Shincha (new harvest): The sweetest, freshest taste of the first spring flush.
2. Use the Right Water Temperature
Never use boiling water—it will scorch the leaves and create bitterness. Instead:
- Ideal temperature: 70–80°C
- Lower (70°C): More sweetness and umami
- Higher (80°C): Stronger, brisker taste
Tip: You can boil your kettle, then let it cool for a minute or two before brewing; however it is preferable to use water that hasn’t been boiled.
3. Measure the Right Amount of Tea
For balanced flavour:
- Standard brew: 1 teaspoon (2g) per 200ml water
- Stronger brew: 2 teaspoons (4g) per 200ml
A traditional kyusu teapot is best, but any good stump teapot or basket infuser works beautifully.
4. Steep for the Right Time
Timing is everything.
- First infusion: 1–2 minutes
- Second infusion: 2–3 seconds (using the same leaves)
- Third infusion: 2–4 minutes
Each infusion has a unique flavour—lighter, sweeter, and softer as you go.
5. Pour and Enjoy
Always empty the teapot completely to avoid over-steeping. If you’re using a kyusu, gently rotate as you pour to distribute the flavour evenly.
Perfect Pairings:
Sencha pairs beautifully with light Japanese snacks like mochi, rice crackers, or fresh sushi.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To get the best from your sencha, steer clear of these pitfalls:
❌ Using boiling water—cool it down to 70–80°C
❌ Over-steeping—never more than 2 minutes on the first brew
❌ Overloading the leaves—stick to 1 teaspoon per 200ml
❌ Throwing leaves away too soon—reuse them for 2–3 infusions
Health Benefits of Sencha Green Tea
Adding sencha to your daily ritual isn’t just delicious—it’s good for you, too:
✔ Rich in antioxidants—fights oxidative stress and supports immunity
✔ Boosts metabolism—can aid healthy weight management
✔ Enhances focus—caffeine lifts energy without the crash
✔ Promotes calm—L-theanine helps relax the mind while staying alert
✔ Supports digestion—gentle on the stomach
Final Thoughts
Mastering sencha brewing is simple when you have the right tools and a little know-how. With premium loose leaf tea, the correct temperature, and mindful steeping times, you’ll enjoy a smooth, refreshing cup every time.
Whether you’re after a calming daily ritual or an antioxidant-rich boost, Japanese sencha is a fantastic choice. Explore different varieties, experiment with multiple infusions, and discover the nuanced flavours in every cup.
Ready to taste the difference? Buy our premium Japanese sencha green tea at Porter Hill Tea Company today.
