Tenbone Hojicha (Kyoto Uji)

Kyoto Uji | Tenbone Hojicha Tea Liquor Color: Left: 1st Infusion, Right: 2nd Infusion "Tenbone Hojicha" is crafted by roasting the stems of hand-picked, premium tencha grown in Uji. Consequently, this is an exceptionally rare roasted tea, offering not just a fragrant roasted aroma but also the distinct umami and sweetness found in "tencha," the raw material for matcha. In reality, the meticulous work of hand-picking choice tea leaves for premium matcha (known as "tsumi musume") is becoming increasingly unpopular due to low wages and demanding labor. YUGEN's owner, however, noticed the tencha stems that were always discarded. While roasted teas using stems exist in other regions, Kyoto primarily features karigane tea (roasted autumn tea). Upon roasting the hand-picked stems of premium tencha, we discovered a wonderfully rich aroma, deep umami, and delightful taste. It felt like such a waste for something so delicious to be discarded. Furthermore, by transforming the stems into a product, we hoped to provide a little more compensation to the producers and the "tsumi musume." This is the roasted tea we have been making since our opening. Please enjoy this special roasted tea, a flavor rarely found elsewhere. We also highly recommend enjoying it as a cold brew. "Tencha" The raw material for matcha. The cultivation method is nearly identical to gyokuro, where the entire tea field is covered for approximately 20 days before harvest to block direct sunlight. This cultivation method suppresses catechins and promotes the production of the umami component, theanine. The harvested leaves are then steamed and dried without being rolled, resulting in "tencha." =========================================================== **【Guidance and Storage Methods】** • Unopened tea leaves should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and high humidity. For long-term storage, seal the tea and freeze it. Before opening, allow it to return to room temperature to maintain quality. • Once opened, transfer the tea to an airtight, light-blocking container and store it in a cool, dark place. Please consume it as soon as possible, ideally within one month. Tea easily absorbs odors, so avoid storing it near strongly scented items.