Tokujō Gyokuro "Okumidori"

Gyokuro ranks among Japan’s great green teas: exceptionally refined, intense in character, and instantly recognizable by its deep umami. The name literally means ‘dewdrop’ and refers to a distinctive Japanese tea-growing method in which the plants are shielded from direct sunlight in the weeks leading up to the harvest. Sheltered in this way, the leaves slowly develop their characteristic richness: a pronounced sweetness, a smooth texture, and the almost savory intensity that makes fine Gyokuro so special.

Our “Tokujō Gyokuro” originates from the area around Ise Bay in Japan’s Mie Prefecture, a region with a centuries-old tea-growing tradition. This Gyokuro is produced from the ‘Okumidori’ cultivar, prized for its deep green color, smoothness, and low astringency. The tea plants are shaded from direct sunlight for up to three weeks before harvest. In this filtered interplay of light and shadow, the leaves grow more slowly, developing the distinctive umami character for which Gyokuro is renowned.

After harvesting, the leaves are steamed and carefully rolled according to Japanese tradition. Subsequent processing creates the fine, needle-like shape so characteristic of Gyokuro. The dry leaves are a glossy, deep dark green; once brewed, they unfurl into a clear green infusion of remarkable smoothness and depth.

In the cup, this Gyokuro reveals its true richness: a deep, velvety umami forms the core, surrounded by fresh green notes and a refined maritime accent. Beneath that, a natural sweetness unfolds, creamy and almost buttery in texture. The flavor is intense yet not heavy, with barely any astringency and a long, smooth finish that maintains a beautiful balance between sweet and savory notes.

Note: Gyokuro requires a thoughtful brewing approach. Using soft water at a low temperature allows the leaves time to gradually release their richness. The first infusion highlights concentrated sweetness and umami; with subsequent infusions, the character shifts, revealing fresher, green nuances. In this way, the same leaves offer a multi-layered experience.

In summary: An exceptionally refined Japanese green tea where shade, time, and craftsmanship converge in an intense interplay of umami, smoothness, and natural sweetness. “Tokujō Gyokuro” is a tea to be savored slowly—infusion after infusion.

Ingrediënten:    
Pure green tea from Japan.
 

2 min. max.      60°C (140°F)