Maiko Tea headquarters is located in Kyotanabe city, known throughout Japan as the capital of high-grade Gyokuro. The tea plants are grown in "ooishita en" (covered) fields that are shaded from mid-April until harvest. Once the buds are ready and picked, they are steamed, dried, and palm rolled by hand. Gyokuro is the highest grade of Japanese tea available, and is characterized by a fine green color, rich aroma, and mellow, sweet flavor. High-quality Gyokuro possesses a uniquely rich taste that is jam packed with amino acids that we can only describe as being full of ‘umami’. It is not a beverage that one should drink in a rush, but should be sipped slowly in order for its flavors to spread throughout the entirety of the mouth. This is the proper way to experience Gyokuro's deep and enchanting flavor and aroma.
For best practices in brewing the best Gyokuro cup of tea, please watch the tutorial video below, courtesy of Maiko no Cha!