Sencha (4) 2025

Four shincha (new teas) from different areas in Japan. As fresh as it gets. Classic and not-so-classic picks. This gives you a great overview of what I found this year.

 SENCHA WHISPERS ( 50g | 100g )

sencha futsumushi from Niyodogawa, Yabukita cultivar.

Very pleasant sencha from a small cooperative of farmers (8 families) in Ikegawa on Shikoku island. This is the type of project I'd support any day all day.

 SENCHA DAWN ( 50g | 100g )

sencha futsumushi from Sakawa, Sōfū cultivar.

Unshaded sencha made from the sōfū cultivar, an "inzatsu" type cultivar. Strong floral aromatics linger in the mouth with notes of jasmine, wildflowers, and white grapes. 

 SENCHA DRUMS ( 50g | 100g )

sencha futsumushi from Kawane, Sayamakaori cultivar

New version of an old classic ... grown in altitude on the high slopes of Kawane, the Sayamakaori cultivar showcases an incredibly aromatic profile, with great structure and flavors to enjoy. Notes of fresh exotic fruits and delicate summer greens.

 SENCHA CHANTS ( 25g | 50g )

Hand-picked sencha futsumushi from Kawane, Yabukita cultivar.

Light, fresh and perfectly balanced, this tea was harvest by hand from an unpruned tea garden (shizen-shitate) at 600m in altitude. In my mind, this should be the staple both in terms of culture and taste for Shizuoka teas.