Yoshitsugu Furukawa needs little introduction. Beyond producing the most recent #1 Matcha in Japan, he is widely regarded as one of the most celebrated growers of high-grade Tencha—not only in Uji, but anywhere in Japan. His commitment runs deep. He works entirely on his own terms, by hand, with no shortcuts, and with a level of care that is increasingly rare. With only one harvest taken from each field per year, every lot produced at his factory is first flush. This special house-roasted Houjicha is made from first harvest Asahi stems, a byproduct of the award winning matcha production for which Furukawa-san is known—an incredibly rare base for houjicha. The resulting cup is imbued with a deep and harmonious umami, the calling card of the Asahi cultivar. An intense fragrance is brought to life by the roasting process, which adds a slight spiciness and endless complexity. It is a distinct pleasure to share this tea with our audience.