What is Houjicha ?
This warm and inviting green tea is currently making waves in cafes and teashops across the globe. The gentle toasted sweetness of this unique leaf and stem, low caffeineted tea is hand crafted using traditional artisan methods in Kyoto, Japan. Houjicha is a popular choice among many to enjoy hot or iced and pairs perfectly with any meal.
We are excited to now offer two forms of Houjicha ...
The second flush harvest of tea in Japan is often called Bancha, or ‘Last Tea.’ These tea leaves are less delicate than those plucked in the Spring for use in pure steamed teas like Sencha. In this case, the Bancha leaves are produced pesticide-free and steamed as they would usually be, with the additional step of being roasted with first flush stems, becoming a Houjicha.
The resulting cup steeps to a warm clear amber. A gentle sweetly roasted flavour, reminiscent of warm bread with a soft and refreshing grassy depth that lingers comfortably on the palate. The full bodied richness pairs with the crisp freshness of the bancha leaves. The nose is toasty with a sweet tamarind aroma. The second steep evolves into a more refreshing, toasted and grassy profile with clarity and little to no astringency.
For a delicious steep, we recommend 3-5g per cup using 95ºC water. Steep 1.5-2 minutes or your preference for desired taste.
