Saga Organic Saemidori Tamaryokucha

This new tea, discovered by Leo during his 2024 tea trip to Japan in May, is now available in an extremely limited quantity. Made from the Saemidori cultivar, this Tamaryokucha is famous for its smoothness, rich umami, and thick body. It’s incredibly easy to drink, with a sweet cucumber flavor complemented by a delicate, sweet vegetable-like undertone.

Adding to its prestige, this Tamaryokucha is served at a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant in Tokyo, highlighting its extraordinary quality. This tea hails from the award-winning Saemidori Tamaryokucha produced in Saga’s Ureshino area, boasting a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other green teas.

What Makes Tamaryokucha Unique:

Tamaryokucha, also known as “curly tea” or “guricha,” differs from Sencha in its processing method. While Sencha leaves are traditionally rolled into needle-like shapes, Tamaryokucha leaves are gently curled during the production process. This difference in shaping gives Tamaryokucha a rounder, softer flavor profile compared to the sharper, more astringent taste often associated with Sencha. The gentle processing also helps retain more of the natural oils, contributing to Tamaryokucha’s rich, smooth body and distinctive aroma.

Saga and Ureshino Area:

Saga Prefecture, particularly the Ureshino area, is celebrated for its exceptional tea production. The region’s unique climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality tea. The gentle mist and abundant rainfall contribute to the distinctive characteristics of Saga teas, resulting in subtle variations in flavor and aroma compared to neighboring regions like Nagasaki.

Flavor Profile:

The Saemidori Tamaryokucha offers a harmonious blend of flavors, starting with a subtle sweetness reminiscent of fresh cucumber, followed by a rich, umami-packed body that leaves a satisfying, lingering finish. Its well-rounded profile, softer than Sencha, makes it an excellent choice for those seeking depth and balance in their tea.

Saemidori:

Saemidori is a highly regarded cultivar known for its exceptional sweetness and smooth texture, making it a favorite among green tea connoisseurs. It thrives in the misty hills of Saga, where optimal growing conditions bring out its finest qualities.

Appearance:

This Saemidori Tamaryokucha is visually stunning, with a deep jade green color that reflects its freshness and quality. The vibrant hue invites you to savor its rich flavors.

Brewing Instructions:

For the best experience, we recommend brewing 5 grams of Saemidori Tamaryokucha in a 250ml kyusu (traditional Japanese teapot) at a temperature of 165°F (74°C) for about one minute. This careful brewing process ensures that you extract the full spectrum of flavors and aromas from the tea leaves, delivering a perfect cup every time.

Experience the captivating color and harmonious flavors of Saga’s award-winning Saemidori Tamaryokucha, a tea that promises a delightful and memorable experience with every sip.