Description:

Tenkuu occupies the rare position of being Hinpyoukai-cha - competition class tea. This exquisitely crafted Yabukita Sencha hails from the town of Wazuka just south of Kyoto. From field to factory, Tenkuu is a labor of love - an absolute pinnacle representation of the gentle power and sophistication of Uji tea..

The brewed tea is incredibly fragrant and the pale brewed liquor is a testament the expert steaming and rolling of the leaf. A notable freshness remains even after this tea has been resting in refrigeration for 14 months. Intensity and grace are evenly balanced with a slightly floral nose and a deep, focused umami with reminiscent of sweet pea, artichoke and flowers (much less "protein like" than Yame gyokuro).

What is so special about this tea? Tenkuu is an absolute labor of love. Teas produced specifically for competitive tea fairs in Japan are known as "Shuppin-cha" [出品茶] or "Hinpyoukai-cha" [品評会茶] and Tenkuu is one of them. Teas of this caliber are meant to showcase the skill of the producer and while they don't make up a large percentage of the volume of a tea makers yearly sales, they are considered extremely important. Made from 100% Yabukita cultivar. We were overwhelmed with the intensity and richness of this Sencha. The notable umami is a product of enriched soil and careful cultivation techniques while the perfect needle shaped leaves are created under the watchful eye of the producer. Absolutely stunning and a must try for serious Japanese tea lovers.

Recommended for: Serious Sencha aficionados. Drink 25g now and keep the rest in the fridge and check back in with it over the next few months.