1. Why It Works: The Physics of Density
Why don't you choke on leaves? Dry tea leaves float because they contain air. As they soak up hot water, they rehydrate and become denser than water.
Whole leaves (like Oolong balls or Dragon Well spears) are heavy. Once saturated, they sink to the bottom and stay there, forming a natural sediment layer. Broken leaves (dust/fannings found in tea bags) are too light and easily disturbed by the current of sipping, which is why they float into your mouth.
Expert Tip: The "Teeth Filter"
Occasionally, a rogue leaf will float near the surface. You simply use your lips or teeth as a light filter to keep it in the glass. It's a skill you master after the first cup.
2. Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: The Dose
Cover the bottom of your glass with leaves. About 3g to 5g depending on the size of the glass.
Step 2: The Rinse (Optional but Recommended)
Pour a little hot water to cover the leaves. Swirl for 5 seconds, then pour that water out (using your hand to block leaves). This washes off dust and "wakes up" the leaves.
Step 3: The Pour
Fill the glass with hot water. Wait. Do not stir. Let gravity do the work. Over 2-3 minutes, you will see the "Agony of the Leaves" as they unfurl and slowly drift down.
Step 4: The Refill
Drink until about 1/3 of the tea remains. Then refill with hot water. This remaining tea (the "Root") mixes with the new water to ensure the second cup isn't weak.
Expert Tip: Temperature Control
Because the leaves stay in the water forever, you can't use boiling water for Green Tea or it will get bitter. Use slightly cooler water (80°C). For Oolong and Pu-erh, boiling water is fine because they are robust.
3. Best & Worst Teas for Grandpa Style
Not every tea works. You need structural integrity.
| Tea Type | Suitability | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Dragon Well (Longjing) | Perfect | Flat leaves sink beautifully and look elegant in glass. |
| Rolled Oolong (Tie Guan Yin) | Perfect | Heavy balls sink fast and unfurl slowly over hours. |
| Silver Needle | Good | Buds stand vertically ("dancing"), though some may float initially. |
| English Breakfast | Terrible | Broken leaves (CTC) float and become incredibly bitter/astringent instantly. |
Expert Tip: Why Glass?
While you can use a mug, clear glass is preferred. It lets you see exactly where the leaves are (so you don't drink them) and allows you to enjoy the visual beauty of the rehydrating leaves.
4. Why does it taste different?
When you use a teapot, the flavor concentration is a curve: it goes up, peaks, and you pour it out.
With Grandpa Style, the flavor concentration is a gradient. The tea at the bottom (near the leaves) is strong and bitter. The tea at the top is light and sweet. As you tilt the glass to drink, these layers mix in your mouth, creating a dynamic flavor profile that changes with every sip.
Ready to try the lazy way?
You need the right glass—one that is heat resistant and tall enough to let the leaves settle. We've reviewed the best double-walled glasses and mugs for Grandpa Style. See our top picks here: The 5 Best Mugs for Grandpa Style Brewing →