How to Cold Brew Tea

by Whittard of Chelsea4 Minute Read

It's a sweltering day, and you're craving something a little more sophisticated than the average soft drink. Cold brew tea is just the ticket for your parched palette.

Published 20/8/26. Reviewed 30/9/26

What is cold brew tea, and how is it different from iced tea?

No, they’re not the same thing (but we won’t hold a grudge). Cold brew tea is brewed in cold or temperate water – and it’s the long steeping time that unlocks flavour. Iced tea is brewed in hot water and then cooled rapidly over ice, meaning it’s ready much sooner.

Thanks to its gradual steep, cold brew tends to be smoother, sweeter and less bitter than traditional iced tea, but both are utterly delicious on a summer’s day.

Prefer the more impactful flavour of traditional iced tea? Take a look at our guide on how to make iced tea and find out how to brew this refreshing summer favourite at home.

How to Make

Cold Brew Tea

Time

5 Minutes + 6 hours chilling

Difficulty

Super Easy

Serves

1-2

Ready to master the art of cold brew tea?

1.
Add two teaspoons of loose tea or your favourite cold brew tea bag to a jug, or purpose-made cold brew bottle.
2.
Pour over water fresh from the tap - filtered is even better, if you've got it.
3.
Let the magic happen, and leave to steep for 4-6 hours.
4.
Enjoy the crisp, energising taste of perfectly chilled tea, best consumed within 24 hours.