WATER - 99% of tea is water, Tap water should be avoided since its
chemical treatment imparts undesirable flavors and odors which
interfere with the delicate aromatics of tea. (Home filters and other
water purification systems can minimize and, in some cases, eliminate
these problems.) The best water for tea brewing is spring water with a
natural mineral content that's neither too hard nor too soft. Since
T.D.S., "total dissolved solids," or mineral content measured in
parts per million varies greatly from water to water, you may want to
do your own taste-test of waters available in your area to determine
which one has the best flavor, body and compatibility with the tea you
drink. An interesting Distilled water is not recommended for tea since
water purified of its mineral content produces a flat-tasting infusion.
icetea