What is cold brew?
Cold/icy water is used from the beginning. Instead of steeping with hot water intensely but shortly, the brewing takes place slowly over time in a low temperature environment. This allows flavours intrinsic to tea leaves to comes out.
What makes it special?
Bitterness and astringency are the flavour profiles that one usually tries to balance in a cup of tea, which comes from tannin and caffeine. Sweetness and umami come from theanine and other amino acids.
Tannin and caffeine dissolve into the water when the temperature is high. However, when cold brewed, these substances hardly dissolve into the water while the umami substances are being accentuated. Thus, this extracts a fraction of substances in tea that is light, aromatic, fresh, mellow, and sweet. It's perfect for summertime and anytime when in a light mood.
