Japan - Ikeda Cha-en - Tamaryokucha Superb (極上) Blend

Ikeda Cha-en's Tamaryokucha Superb (極上) Blend is a masterpiece of blending, comprising Tsuyuhikari, Saemidori, and Yabukita cultivars in harmony. Sourced from the skilled Sonogi tea farmers of Nagasaki, this tea is expertly blended and finished to perfection. It is an epitome of tamaryokucha (玉緑茶) artistry and Ikeda Cha-en's top-grade blend.

The ichibancha harvest (first harvest) is shaded under kabuse (covered) conditions and deep-steamed in the fukamushi (longer, deep steamed) style. It has a bold, round, full-bodied profile with strong umami characteristics. The Tsuyuhikari and Saemidori cultivars introduce a vivid green color and rich creaminess, while Yabukita balances out the blend with its subtle richness. With its thick mouthfeel and almost matcha-like creaminess, this is truly a luxury tea for those who enjoy the depth and power of a strong green tea, offering rich aroma and satisfying lenghth.

In the Nagasaki region of Sonogi, tea is best known as "Sonogicha", and tamaryokucha is what the locals will simply call "ocha", as tea is there is automatically assumed to be tamaryokucha . It is different from the sencha in most other regions of Japan, with its curly leaf shape. For Sonogi locals, tamaryokucha is the pinnacle of top-quality teas, and this Superb Blend truly represents the regions' tea culture and is a true luxury with every sip.

Enjoy the extraordinary taste of Sonogicha with Ikeda Cha-en's Tamaryokucha Superb Blend-the tea redefines excellence with every sip.

Infusion Recommendations:
Our brewing recommendation follows the typical Japanese brewing style to enjoy a high quality green tea as they do in Sonogi and other parts of Japan. Higher leaf quantity with a shorter steep time at the lower temperature of 60°C brings out more of the umami characteristics without bitterness.

This tea can be infused at least three times, with each infusion bringing deeper layers of flavour, and passionate tea lovers may even find further complexity on each brew. Use hotter water for subsequent brews and adjust brewing time for desired strength.

Also excellent cold brewed overnight in a 1 litre jug of water placed in the fridge over 15 hours. Adjust quantity to taste.