Japanese Sencha Green Tea - WS

Japan, with its warm climate and ample rain, is a perfect environment for tea growing. Tea growing is thought to have begun here in the 8th century. While other countries grow their tea bushes on hillsides and pick teas by hand, Japanese gardens are meticulously planted in rows along hills close to natural water sources. Although some teas are hand-picked in Japan, most of the tea grown here is mechanically picked and processed using high tech machinery. Also, unlike other countries that designate their teas by regions or estates, Japanese teas are generally sold by styles. Japanese Sencha Green Tea is the most popular green tea in Japan. Grown in full sun, sencha leaves are harvested 3 or 4 times a year, approximately every 45 days. These long leaves produce a splendid tea with a subtle mixture of sweetness, bitterness and fresh green scent. Brew tea at 165-170º - steep for 1-2 minutes.