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Soft water is generally considered best for brewing black tea. This is because soft water, with its lower mineral content, brings out the tea's true flavor and aroma, resulting in a clearer color.
Japanese black tea, in particular, develops a vibrant red color when brewed with hard water. Using hard water will result in a darker, almost black color, diminishing the appeal of the vibrant hue that is characteristic of Japanese black tea.
Types of tea and water
Soft water:
Water with low mineral content that doesn't interfere with the taste of tea and brings out its flavor and aroma. Most tap water in Japan is soft water.
Hard water:
Water rich in minerals (especially calcium and magnesium) that can make tea taste stronger or emphasize its astringency.
Water suitable for tea
Soft water:
The tannins in black tea leaves are easily affected by minerals, so using soft water allows you to enjoy a clearer color and the original taste and aroma.
Japanese tap water:
Most is soft water, making it suitable for brewing tea.
How to soften hard water:
You may want to brew Japanese black tea in countries with hard water other than Japan.
There are two main methods for softening hard water: heating and using a water softener (ion exchange resin).
Heating can remove some of the hardness components by causing them to precipitate, but a water softener is more effective for completely softening the water.
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Storable water:
Storable water has low oxygen levels and is not suitable for making tea. Use fresh water that has just been boiled whenever possible.
Water temperature:
Water immediately after boiling (100°C) is ideal. Lukewarm water or water that has boiled too much will not allow the aromatic components of the tea to be fully extracted.
Milk Tea:
It is said that using hard water results in a richer, more flavorful milk tea.
summary
Soft water is ideal for enjoying delicious tea. Most tap water in Japan is soft water, so you can brew tea with peace of mind.
Even overseas, you can use a water softener, boil the water, or use bottled mineral water.
