Gyokuro

Prepare yourself for an extraordinary tea experience with Gyokuro, a true testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of Japanese tea-making. Dating back to Japan's Edo period (1603-1868), Gyokuro embodies the essence of purity and simplicity, so much so that it is best enjoyed alongside a poetic verse.

Renowned Japanese poet Sen no Rikyu (1522-1591) captured the essence of tea in a few profound lines. In response to the question of "what is tea?", he wrote:

Tea is not but this. First, you make the water boil, Then infuse the tea. Then you drink it properly. That is all you need to know.

At first glance, it may seem simple, and indeed it is. However, achieving a tea as pure and exquisite as Kagoshima-grown Gyokuro requires immense dedication and hard work.

The process begins with hand-plucking the tea leaves between March and April, during the flush of fresh new shoots on the tea bushes. Adding to the complexity, for the first three weeks of production, the tea bushes are shaded with bamboo and straw. This shading technique stimulates the plants to produce more chlorophyll, resulting in deeper flavors within the leaves. After approximately two weeks of shading, the tea leaves are meticulously plucked, with extreme care taken to select only those that are smaller than one inch in size. Larger leaves would compromise the tea's fragrance and tender qualities.

The selected leaves are then gently bruised and lightly steamed, giving rise to a dark, fine leaf with a captivating depth and vibrant green character.

Indeed, simplicity comes at a price, but the reward is an unparalleled tea experience. Gyokuro stands as a testament to the dedication and expertise of Japanese tea artisans who have perfected the art of crafting this exceptional tea. So, take a moment to savor the elegance and purity of Gyokuro, allowing its refined flavors to transport you to a realm of tranquility and appreciation for the art of tea.