[tpz]

re: "steeping time (not that long, else you'll get the bitter flavor bits that no one like)"

As a tip to those who might want to give tea a try, the pattern of increased bitterness with increased steeping time is highly dependent on tea quality. Not necessarily price, but quality.

Don't be afraid to do some research, talk to local tea lovers, etc. to find the best quality (not simply the most expensive, as that is a sure way to just get ripped off) loose tea in your area. You'll be rewarded for it in terms of the freedom you have in steeping time, as better tea can be steeped longer and to stronger flavour without developing bitterness. (Higher-quality tea can also be reused for another steeping or two (gasp!) and still deliver great flavour, making it an even better value.)

For those coming off of a strong coffee habit, you can have yourself a nice, strong (but almost never bitter!) replacement in no time.

[carterschonwald]

so then the question is, whats a good place to order loose leaf tea, a place like adagio or what?