Kukicha - Asatsuyu (Single Origin)

Kukicha, or stem tea, is a Japanese tea blend made of stems, twigs, and stalks from typically sencha/green tea plants. This tea boasts a distinctive sweet flavor and aroma because of the use of these parts of the tea plant that are not used in other teas.

This Asatsuyu single origin Kukicha displays intense sweetness and umami with little astringency. The fragrant grain-like aroma characteristic of kukicha is strong without being overwhelming with a hint of sweetness. The added hay-like aroma is unique to the Asatsuyu variety, adding a comforting note. This is a multi-layered tea, with a refreshing, gentle sweetness on top and a thick, deep umami underneath. This tea can be enjoyed hot or cold.

In the heart of Shizuoka at an elevation of 350 meters, Houkouen Tea Farm sits on the lush, green mountains of Ryogouchi. Over 20 varieties of tea are cultivated and processed on these steep tea fields, where Mount Fuji can be seen in the distance. At Houkouen, their philosophy is simple: they pay respect to the tea and let it follow its natural course without unnecessary human interference. This is to create teas that are truly a product of nature. 

What sets Houkouen's tea apart is its distinctive fragrant aromas, unique to the mountainous areas of Shizuoka, that are challenging to replicate.

Houkouen's tea is carefully cultivated in nutrient-rich soil, with minimal pesticide and without over-fertilization, allowing natural umami and aroma development in their tea.  Adhering to the wisdom of their ancestors that "crops thrive on the sound of footsteps," Houkouen farmers tend to their fields with great care. Whether everyday or specialty teas, Houkouen meticulously crafts and delivers high quality Japanese tea to all tea enthusiasts.

Location: Ryogochi, Shizuoka
Taste Profile: Fragrant
Cultivar: Asatsuyu 
Steaming Level : Light (Asamushi)

Umami: ◾◾◾◾ 
Sweetness: ◾◾ 
Astringency: ◾◾◾ 
Aroma:◾◾◾◾

Best for: Enjoying a soothing tea throughout your day, with a mellow and sweet flavor that won't overstimulate.

How to brew:
- Boil 100ml of water and pour into teapot and teacups to warm them
- Once water has cooled to 176ºF, discard from teapot
- Add 5g of tea leaves into teapot and gently pour in hot water
- Cover teapot and let steep for 60 seconds
- Discard water from teacups
- Gently pour from teapot with minimal shaking to avoid unpleasant flavors being released

For second brew:
- Steep tea in 120ml of water at 176º for 20 seconds
- Enjoy the change in taste and aroma with each brew

Best by date: 12 months (unopened)

50g