2024 Complete Shirakawa Matcha Collection

Kiyoharu Tsuji is one of the most decorated matcha producers in all of Japan, and the first to represent Uji in the Kettl catalog. Kettl Founder Zach Mangan first began working with Tsuji san in 2018, making 2024 the seventh anniversary of partnership. Over that time, the relationship has evolved to encompass business, mentorship, and friendship. We are honored to share his freshest offerings.

While the Shincha season for loose leaf tea is typically in late April and early May, matcha comes slightly later due to the intentional resting period prior to milling. This special collection features four single-cultivar shincha selections, the first we've received from the 2024 season. Shincha Matcha possesses a deeply verdant and expressive profile, showcasing the terroir of Uji in the brightest light.


The set contains one 20g tin of each tin:

Asahi
From arguably the most revered garden in Uji this incredible 100% Asahi cultivar matcha is grown by Mr Kiyoharu Tsuji - Japan’s most awarded producer of matcha. Tsuji san's somewhat radical approach to garden management produces matcha with incredibly high levels of Theanine - sometimes double the amount of conventional teas. We invite you to try this special small allotment from a legend of Uji.

Tasting Notes: Concentrated umami / Vanilla / Meringue Sweetness
Tea Origin: Uji, Japan
Packaging: 20g Canister

Uji Hikari
A single cultivar 100% Uji Hikari matcha from Shirakawa, Uji. A rare treat, this tea was shaded with 100% rice straw coverings known as Honzu. This imbues the tea with a rich, heady fragrance. Uji Hikari is easy to drink with a refreshing mouthfeel and long, buttery finish.

Tasting Notes: Balanced Umami / Creamy / Balanced sweetness
Tea Origin: Uji, Japan
Packaging: 20g Canister

Gokou
A single cultivar 100% Gokou matcha from Shirakawa, Uji. This is a wonderful chance to try unblended Gokou Matcha - made from one of Uji's most celebrated local culitvars. Gokou has an intoxicating aroma with a balanced, full bodied finish. Made by a true living legend.

Tasting Notes: Ultra fragrant / Textured / Lasting Freshness
Tea Origin: Uji, Japan
Packaging: 20g Canister

Samidori
This is a wonderful chance to try unblended Samidori Matcha - made from Uji's trademark cultivar. Samidori matcha is the most gentle of all of Tsuji san's offerings. We love this as a luxurious everyday matcha. This Matcha can be prepared both as Usucha and Koicha.

Tasting Notes: Fresh cut grass / Creamy / Pleasing balance
Tea Origin: Uji, Japan
Packaging: 20g Canister