Organic Shincha - first flush 2026, 50 g

Shincha, literally meaning “new tea”, is the first harvest of the Japanese tea year and a symbol of the beginning of a new season. After a winter dormancy, the young leaves accumulate a maximum of nutrients, amino acids, and aromatic compounds, giving the tea its exceptional freshness, natural sweetness, and delicate harmony of flavours. To preserve the character of the freshly picked leaves and the unique energy of spring, the tea is processed immediately after harvesting.This Organic Shincha comes from Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan’s southernmost major tea-growing region. Thanks to its warm subtropical climate, tea bushes begin to sprout earlier here than in other parts of the country, making Kagoshima the source of the season’s first shincha each year. The Yutakamidori cultivar is one of the most highly regarded early-harvest cultivars, prized for its full, harmonious flavour, velvety sweetness, and remarkable freshness.The tea is cultivated according to the principles of organic farming, without the use of synthetic pesticides or industrial fertilisers. The dedication of local farmers and their respectful approach to nature are reflected in the purity of flavour and the outstanding quality of the harvested leaves.Shortly after harvesting, the leaves are gently steamed to halt oxidation and preserve their vibrant green colour and fresh character. They are then traditionally rolled into their characteristic needle-like shape and carefully dried. Each year, we air-freight our shincha directly from Japan, minimising the time between harvest and arrival. This allows you to experience the tea at its freshest – just as tea lovers enjoy it in Japan.The emerald-green leaves produce a pale green infusion with aromas of lemongrass and a delicate hint of seaweed. The taste is pleasantly sweet, juicy, and refreshing, with notes of Galia melon.

Use 10 g of tea (approx. 6 heaped tsp) per 1 l of water at the temperature of 60°C. Infuse for 4 minutes. Then strain. Suitable for 3 infusions.