TeaChat

A friend went to Japan recently and brought me back some tea. Joy!!! I am well versed in Chinese teas, but new to Japanese tea. It's obvious that he purchased this from Itoen Tea Garden. Can anyone: translate this?, find a link to it on Itoen?, and clarify the steeping parameters? Thank you in advance.

Sam





PS: If you open the image in a new tab or window (or save it) you can see it more clearly in full resolution. Or you you need clearer pics, I can do that too.

This appears to be shincha sencha, matching the characters on the front to a Spring newsletter I received from them.

Ito en offerings in Japan differ significantly from those of the USA. So, do not expect to match it to something on their site. In addition, they have so many more offerings in the NYC store compared to the site. I would bet you will not find this on the site.

Their brewing parameters appear to call for 6 grams of leaf per 150 ml(?) 80*C water for 40 seconds. I would first try this temp with a preheated pot, but if it taqstes too astringent or off, try it in an unpreheated pot.

I am betting this is a fukamushi, deep steamed sencha, since the recommended brew time is so short.

But try that and see what happens. The amount of leaf might be a little high for American tastes. I generally use 4-5 grams per 200 ml.

Oh, 2nd steep, try 30 seconds at a slightly higher temp and increase time and temp for further steeps.

Thanks Chip! I was hoping to hear from you, but I didn't expect a reply within 30 min.

Sam

samtuba wrote:Thanks Chip! I was hoping to hear from you, but I didn't expect a reply within 30 min.

Sam

You are welcome, good luck with it. If you do not open it right away, keep it in the fridge as close to 33*F as possible, allowing it to warm to room temp before opening.

Those kanji translate literally as "New Tea"

The brewing directions Chip wrote are spot on.

Oh happy day, Chip said Fukamushi
That Fuka-Fiend...
Master of the Fuka...
He's a chip of the ol cuppa fuka, aint he?
Fuka Masta...

tomasini wrote:Oh happy day, Chip said Fukamushi
That Fuka-Fiend...
Master of the Fuka...
He's a chip of the ol cuppa fuka, aint he?
Fuka Masta...

I am speechless...but felt compelled to say at least something

FUKAMUSHI CHA