Gyokuro Tea

Gyokuro tea, esteemed as the epitome of fine Japanese Green Tea, present an unparalleled tea-drinking experience. Originating from the Uji region of Japan, Gyokuro tea delivers a delicately sweet taste, a result of its unique shade-growth process that enhances its chlorophyll and amino acid content.

These attributes not only enhance its flavour profile but also contribute to its health benefits, making Gyokuro tea a preferred choice for tea connoisseurs in the UK and around the globe. It is also known to be an excellent source of antioxidants, polyphenols and vitamins which have been linked to a range of health benefits from boosting immunity to aiding in weight loss.

Apart from its many nutritional advantages, Gyokuro Tea is also renowned for its unique brewing method. In addition to the traditional steeping process, it can be brewed using cold water for a more refreshing drink.

History of Gyokuro Tea

The history of Gyokuro tea is as rich and intriguing as its flavour. First produced in the mid-19th century in Uji, a region synonymous with premium Japanese green teas, Gyokuro, which translates to 'jade dew', has been celebrated as an exclusive treasure of the tea world.

Its creation is attributed to Yamamoto Kahei, the sixth, a prominent figure in the Japanese tea industry. Yamamoto sought to create a tea that would stand out from the others, and he achieved this by developing the unique method of shading tea plants to alter the characteristics of the leaves - an innovation that resulted in the birth of Gyokuro tea.

This shading process, where tea plants are covered for around 20 days before harvesting, was revolutionary in that it increased the content of L-theanine, an amino acid responsible for the unique sweet flavour and calming properties of Gyokuro tea. This groundbreaking method was passed down through generations, and today, it is the standard process in the production of high-grade Gyokuro tea.

Throughout history, Gyokuro tea has been synonymous with luxury and exclusivity, often reserved for special occasions and esteemed guests. In the UK, it was introduced during the late 20th century and quickly gained popularity among tea connoisseurs for its complex flavour profile and health benefits. Today, it continues to be a prized beverage, a symbol of Japanese cultural heritage, and a testament to the artistry and dedication inherent in tea cultivation.

Gyokuro Tea Harvest

The harvest of Gyokuro tea is a meticulous process that requires careful attention to detail, reflecting its esteemed status in the pantheon of Japanese green teas. This process begins with the shading of the tea bushes, which typically starts 20 to 30 days before the actual harvest. The shading is done using straw or cloth covers, and this treatment significantly reduces the amount of sunlight that reaches the leaves.

This results in a slower rate of photosynthesis, which in turn increases the levels of theanine and caffeine in the leaves, leading to Gyokuro's characteristic sweet flavour and robust energy boost.

The actual picking of the leaves takes place in early spring, a period when the tea leaves have reached their peak in terms of flavour and nutritional content. This is usually a very selective process where only the tender, young leaves and buds are hand-picked. The hand-picking ensures that the leaves are not damaged, preserving their quality and allowing for optimal flavour during brewing.

Following the harvest, the tea leaves undergo a process of steaming, rolling, and drying. Each step is carried out with painstaking precision to ensure the leaves retain their vibrant green colour and rich flavour. The steaming step, in particular, is crucial as it serves to halt the enzymes that would otherwise oxidise the leaves, allowing Gyokuro tea to maintain its green colour and deliver the distinct rich flavours for which it is known.

The final product is then packaged and distributed, ready to deliver the luxurious experience of Gyokuro tea to tea enthusiasts in the UK and around the world.

How to Brew Gyokuro Green Tea

1. Measure the Tea: Begin by measuring out roughly 1 to 2 teaspoons of Gyokuro tea leaves for every 250ml of water. The exact measurement may vary based on personal taste.
2. Preheat the Teapot: Pour hot water into your teapot to pre-warm it, then discard the water. This helps maintain the temperature during brewing.
3. Add Tea Leaves: Place the measured Gyokuro tea leaves into the preheated teapot.
4. Heat Water: Heat water to the optimal brewing temperature, which for Gyokuro is typically lower than other green teas, around 50-60°C (122-140°F).
5. Pour Water Over Leaves: Pour the heated water over the tea leaves. Ensure the leaves are entirely covered with water.
6. Steep the Tea: Allow the tea to steep for approximately 2 minutes. The steeping time can be adjusted depending on your taste preference. For a more robust flavour, steep the tea for a longer period.
7. Pour the Tea: Pour the tea into cups, ensuring each cup contains an equal amount of tea. Doing so will ensure that the flavour is evenly distributed.
8. Enjoy: Sip and savour your freshly brewed cup of Gyokuro tea.

Remember, the same tea leaves can be infused multiple times, each steep revealing a different facet of the tea’s complex flavour profile. Enjoy the subtleties and depth of flavours that each infusion of Gyokuro tea brings.

Tasting Notes: Embrace sweet, mellow flavours with subtle seaweed notes and astringent undertones.

Caffeine Content: One cup of Gyokuro Tea packs a punch with 120-140 milligrams of caffeine.

Benefits of Gyokuro Tea

Gyokuro tea is renowned not only for its unique sweet flavour, but also its many health benefits. It contains high levels of antioxidants and polyphenols, which are compounds found in plant foods that can help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.

The high concentration of theanine in Gyokuro tea imparts a calming effect on the mind, helping to reduce stress and improve cognitive performance. It is also high in minerals like magnesium and calcium that help promote healthy bones, teeth, and muscles.

The combination of these health benefits makes Gyokuro tea an ideal beverage for anyone looking to incorporate a nutritious drink into their daily routine. Whether you’re seeking a boost of energy or looking for an indulgent treat, Gyokuro tea is an excellent choice for any occasion.

So, if you’re looking to explore the world of Japanese teas and embark on a unique tasting journey, try out some Gyokuro green tea today. Experience its complex flavour profile and enjoy the myriad benefits it has to offer. You won’t regret it!