Description
Okuyame Hoshino-cha* Fujimidori Kabuse Sencha - 2026 Ichibancha (First/Spring Harvest Tea.)
Origin: Hoshino Village, Yame, Fukuoka Prefecture; Takaki Tea Farm, Farmer Takaki Akihito Cultivar: Fujimidori ("Fuji Green")
*Okuyame means "Deep Yame", and Hoshino-cha refers to teas grown in Hoshino-mura (Hoshino Village), which is within the Yame City borders, but deep in the mountains. While Yame itself is known to be one of the premier Gyokuro, Kabuse-cha, and Matcha producing regions of Japan; the mountainous area of Hoshino Village is known as one of the premier tea growing locations within Yame City. The Takaki Tea Farm is an award-winning grower and producer of fine teas from Hoshino Village, and Takaki Akihito is the fourth generation head of this highly reputable tea farm.
The Fujimidori cultivar is known for creating a beautiful green color, and for being rich in umami. It is not grown by many Yame farmers, so stock is limited. It has wonderful dashi-like umami salinity on the first infusion, and the second infusion brings out more amami (sweetness). These first and second infusions are both very low in astringency. The third infusion is smooth and well-balanced with umami, amami, and a light shibumi (astringency) finish. Smooth throughout all infusions, but with a variety of taste experiences to enjoy.
The Yame region of Fukuoka Prefecture on Japan's southern island of Kyushu is known for producing high quality Gyokuro and Sencha, but in relatively limited amounts. The region consistently produces teas that win awards at Japanese national tea competitions. A person living in Tokyo would find it a real treat to enjoy fine tea from Yame, and you can now have it here in North America.