Gyokuro

Gyokuro or jade dew is actually selected from a precursor grade known as ten-cha and is regarded as the highest grade of tea made in Japan. Seen very much as a luxury, and rare commodity, the gyokuro teas are made only with the limited first flush leaf in order to achieve a rich and round flavour with a delicate, pale lemon-green colour. Gyokuro is grown in the shade for approximately twenty days before harvesting is commenced. Removing direct sunlight in this way has the effect of reducing leaf photosynthesis, which alters the proportions of sugars, amino acids, flavanols and other substances responsible for tea aroma and taste. Gyokuro tea is generally sweet and delicate in flavour, as well as having a soft palate texture. It makes an excellent light evening tea.
2 oz. - $12.38 1/4 lb. - $20.63 1/2 lb. - $34.38 1 lb. - $62.50

Recommended Preparation

Use 1 heaping tsp. per 6 oz. cup; heat fresh, cold water to first signs of steam (140°F); let steep for 1.5 min. Good for multiple infusions.

More Information

The Art of Chanoyu- Japanese Tea Ceremony

What we call a "tea ceremony" is a Japanese ritual defined by the word chanoyu, which literally means "hot tea water." A truly spiritual expression of the "way of tea," traditional chanoyu takes place in an "empty house" or "tea room" that one reaches via a path of flat, irregular stones (roji). The tea master, kneeling on a tatami about nine square yards, wipes the tea bowl (chawan) with a silken fabric (fukusa) attached to the belt of his kimono. Read more about The Art of Chanoyu - Japanese Tea Ceremony.

Japanese Green Teas

Green tea is the predominant tea beverage consumed throughout Japan today. There are many kinds available. Early season sencha, the new season tea or shin cha, are generally regarded as the best of each year’s crop, and different regions compete on quality and seasonal availability. There are also those special occasion teas such as gyokuro, (a rarity and extravagantly priced); houjicha - a roasted tea and very much an evening drink; and the famous ceremony beverage, a powdered tea called maccha. Read more on Japanese Green Teas.

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