Organic Gyokuro
Karigane

The county of Matsuyama is considered one of the top locations in Kagoshima for gyokuro and sencha production. The volcanic Akahoya soil has excellent drainage and the climate is overall mild, which facilitates the growth of gyokuro and especially early cultivars. Though the temperatures are slightly below the average, the fluctuation between night and day proves beneficial to the overall quality of the tea. The tea fields furthermore sit at roughly 190m above sea level.

The Sakamoto brothers are particularly proud of their organic, self-made fermented fertiliser (ボカシ; bokashi, or extended slow-acting fertiliser). Only a few hundred kilos of this tea are harvested during the first harvest every year.

Single Origin

This tea is exclusively sourced from the above mentioned tea farm in Matsuyama. Sourced directly from the tea producer located next to the farm.

Organic Certification

Brewing Guide

3 heaped tsp per 100-300ml (55-60°C) water. Steep for 2 minutes. Suitable for several infusions.

Packaging

High quality, airtight, resealable standing zipper pouch with 9 protective layers to preserve flavour and protect against oxidation and contamination.

Recommended Teapot

The ideal teapot for gyokuro is a vintage Banko kyusu made from 100% violet banko clay. This clay, when transformed into a teapot and fired via a reduction firing process, brings out the nuanced flavour of the gyokuro that is shaped by its amino acids, chlorophyll, and other special compounds. Vintage kyusu from 1990 or earlier likely consist of 100% violet clay from the Banko region. Modern violet Banko kyusu with a fine ceramic strainer are, however, also suitable for making gyokuro.

Recommended Storage

The ideal tea caddy for gyokuro is one made from high-quality cherry wood (kabazaiku chazutsu; solid wood) or, alternatively, a more affordable airtight, double-coated tea caddy.