Tea Knowledge: Is it better to brew tea in a gaiwan or a teapot?

When first learning to brew tea, many people are stuck on the question: Is it better to use a gaiwan or a teapot? Some say that tea brewed in a purple clay teapot has a more flavorful aroma, while others believe that a gaiwan is the most versatile tea set.

In reality, there's no absolute superiority or inferiority between these two types of tea sets; the key is knowing which one is right for you.

◆ The Key to Taste Differences

01. The Influence of Material

Let's start with the most pressing issue of taste. Some people think tea brewed in a purple clay teapot is more fragrant than tea brewed in a gaiwan. This is primarily due to the different materials.

The microporous structure of a purple clay teapot absorbs tea flavors, allowing it to retain its aroma even without tea leaves after a long brewing period. Gaiwans, on the other hand, are mostly made of porcelain, with a smooth surface that doesn't absorb odors, allowing the tea's true flavor to be more directly revealed.

But honestly, unless you're a seasoned tea drinker, it's difficult for the average person to discern a noticeable difference.

02. The Influence of Vessel Shape

If the teapots are made of the same material, such as a porcelain gaiwan and a porcelain teapot, the difference is even more subtle.

A teapot with a small opening dissipates heat more slowly, allowing the tea leaves to simmer longer and resulting in a slightly stronger tea. A gaiwan with a large opening dispenses the tea quickly, resulting in a lighter, more refreshing tea.

But this difference is like the difference between iced and uniced cola; without careful comparison, you can't even taste it.

◆ How Should Beginners Choose?

01. Choose a teapot for those afraid of burns

Beginners are advised to start with a teapot, especially a purple clay teapot, as pouring tea by gripping the handle is less likely to burn your hands.

Although a gaiwan may look simple, it's easy for beginners to burn their fingers, either by holding the bowl incorrectly or by not properly controlling the water flow.

When I first started using a gaiwan, I was constantly getting burned.

02. Choose a gaiwan for hassle

If you're someone who's afraid of hassle, a gaiwan is a surefire way to go. When pouring tea, the wide mouth of the bowl prevents tea leaves from spilling. When pouring tea, tilting the lid allows you to control the flow, adjusting it to be fast or slow. After drinking, rinse the tea directly to remove any remaining tea residue, unlike a kettle where you have to use a tea needle to clean the spout.

For those who just want a quick cup of tea after get off work, a gaiwan can do it in three minutes.

03. Matching by Tea Type

Tea lovers who are more discerning will choose their tea based on the type of tea.

Aromatic teas like green and black tea are best suited to gaiwan teas, which maximize their fragrance and freshness. Using a purple clay teapot for green tea can easily overcook the tender buds, losing their freshness.

For teas like oolong and pu'er tea, which require a slow release of flavor, a purple clay teapot is more suitable. The pot's excellent heat retention allows the tea leaves' aroma and flavor to fully develop.

◆ Choose Based on the Scenario

Different occasions offer different options.

If you have three or five guests at home, using a gaiwan is more efficient, allowing you to brew three or four cups at once, saving everyone the wait. If it's just one or two people enjoying a leisurely sip, using a teapot offers a more immersive experience. Holding the warm, smooth body of the teapot and watching the tea slowly steep is a true pleasure in itself.

Tea masters in teahouses favor gaiwans because they dispense tea quickly and allow them to serve multiple guests simultaneously.

◆ Cultural Preferences and Personal Choice

In reality, gaiwans and teapots are like chopsticks and spoons; each has its own purpose.

Some people prefer gaiwans for their spaciousness; others can't do without a purple clay teapot for gongfu tea, emphasizing its warmth and warmth.

I know a tea lover who has over a dozen gaiwans at home, in different colors and sizes, for different teas. Another friend has used a single purple clay teapot for ten years, maintaining its lustrous sheen and resulting in teas with a truly unique flavor.

Ultimately, brewing tea should be a relaxing experience, free from the constraints of rules. If you want to use a gaiwan today, use it; if you want to switch to a pot tomorrow, switch to a pot. You'll eventually find the method that works best for you.

Just like some people prefer Coke, others prefer ice water. There's no right or wrong; what's most important is what you feel comfortable with.