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ShiZen Tea

Spring pick - Sayama Premium Tenpi (Sun-dried) Sayama sencha 50g

Spring pick - Sayama Premium Tenpi (Sun-dried) Sayama sencha 50g

Regular price $9.90 USD
Regular price Sale price $9.90 USD
Sale Sold out

Premium sun-dried spring pick from Sayama Region

  • Origin: Iruma Region, Saitama Prefecture (Sayama)
  • Harvest: First pick of spring (end of April)
  • Cultivation Method: Shaded by kanreisha cloth
  • Cultivar: Sayama Kaori
  • Processing: light steam style with a green yellow color
  • Characteristics: floral aroma, natural sweetness, medium umami 
  • Contents: 50g (approximately 15-17 servings)

This tea will be using the youngest (first-picked) buds of cultivar 'Sayama Kori'. After harvesting, they are sun-dried, which is called tenpi in Japanese, for about 6 hours to enhance wilting. This process adds the aroma, flavor, and various added values of the variety, resulting in a tea with strong individuality.

The traditional sun-dried method is called icho in Japanese. Icho is a tea-making process where harvested tea leaves are deliberately wilted, reducing moisture and activating oxidation enzymes to bring out a unique aroma.

After processing in spring, we let it age until autumn/winter and let the taste become more mellow and soft. 

When extracted at low temperatures, it offers a sweet taste, while high-temperature extraction brings out the aroma. Various brewing methods can be enjoyed, and the flavor changes between the first and second brew.

Made by the renowned top skilled tea master Nakajima-san of Onishi-en

Cultivated on the historic Oonishi-en estate, which boasts a legacy spanning 250 years, this sencha is hand roasted by a tea master adorned with the title of "Eisei-chasei (Eternal Tea Saint)." Having claimed the top position in the National Hand-Rolled Tea Appraisal Contest an impressive eight times, this tea master is widely recognized as Japan's foremost expert in the art of tea. 

Under the leadership of the skilled artisan Nakajima-san, Oonishi-en continues to uphold traditional techniques, producing the esteemed "deep-steamed tea" that Sayama tea is celebrated for. Immerse yourself in the epitome of quality with tea crafted by Japan's finest tea master.


Taste profile:

Natural sweetness : ★★★★

Savory / Umami : ★★★★

Bitterness : ★☆☆☆

Flavor note:  Floral unique aroma / Mellow natural Sweetness / 

Brewing:   

  • To enjoy the umami and sweetness
    • water temperature: 70C (158F)
    • Steeping time: 1 minute 15 seconds
  • To enjoy the aroma
    • water temperature: 90C (194F)
    • Steeping time: 30 seconds

Amount of tea leaf:  3-4g per 100-120ml

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FAQ

Q. How soon will my order be shipped?

A. We typically ship orders within 2-3 business days. In the rare event that an item is out of stock, it may take longer. If that happens, we will contact you directly to discuss the options.

Q. What is your return policy?

A. Due to the perishable nature of our products and for international shipping reasons, we generally cannot accept returns. However, we take the utmost care in ensuring the quality of our tea. If you feel the quality has been compromised in any way, please contact us. We will be happy to send you a replacement.

Q. Is this tea organic?

A. This tea is not certified organic. However, it is crafted in compliance with Japan's rigorous standards for pesticide use. It is a product that is safely enjoyed throughout Japan, with no reported health issues, ensuring it is both safe and of high quality.

Q. Will I have to pay customs and import taxes?

A. Please be aware that customs duties or import taxes may be charged depending on the regulations of your country. Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. We recommend contacting your local customs authority for details.

Q. Can I track my order?

A. Yes, tracking is available for all orders. Once your order has been shipped, you will receive a confirmation email containing your tracking number and a link to track your package.

Q. How much caffeine does this tea contain?

A. Yes, like all green tea, this sencha contains caffeine. It has approximately 30mg per cup, which is about one-third of the amount in a typical cup of coffee. It is also rich in L-theanine, an amino acid known for its calming and focusing effects, which provides a state of smooth, alert relaxation.

Q. How should I store the tea?

A. To maintain its quality and freshness, please store your tea in a cool, dark place, away from high temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight. Ensure the package is sealed tightly after each use. We recommend consuming the tea promptly after opening to enjoy its best aroma and flavor. Usually, matcha/secha's aroma and flavor will go down from 2 to 3 weeks.

Q. What payment methods do you accept?

A. We accept all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) as well as PayPal.