Country of Origin: Japan Region: Shizuoka Prefecture

Grade: Sencha            Infusion: Pale yellow green 

Manufacture Type: Steamed green tea

Cup Characteristics: Crsip and smooth with reasonable depth and body.

Information: Japan produces some of the best green teas in the world.  The primary producing area in Japan is the Shizuoka prefecture which is west south west of Tokyo.  The efficiency of Japan’s tea production is amongst the highest in the world reaching yields of 1500 pounds per acre. Despite the fact that mechanical plucking is used, the tea made is generally considered the best green tea in the world.

Japan only exports about 1-2 percent of its total production and recently has become a leading importer of the finest teas in the world.  Over half of the yearly production of Japanese tea comes from Shizuoka. The production of green tea entails the steaming of the green leaf and hand or machine rubbing.  The teas are then pan fried or basket fired which gives them a distinctive appearance and glossy look and feel.  These methods give a taste that is light in colour but rich and full in the cup.

Hot tea brewing method: Use water that is about 180’F or 80’C. Place 1 teaspoon in your cup, let the tea steep for about 3 minutes and then begin enjoying a cup of enchantment. This tea can be used repeatedly - about 3 times

Iced tea brewing method: A rule of thumb when preparing fresh brewed iced tea is to double the strength of hot tea since it will be poured over ice and diluted with cold water.