Kansai Tea Competition Prized Kabusecha Saemidori

To represent the best teas from the region, the Kansai Tea Competition is organized every September. All competitive grade teas from the area are displayed, savored and evaluated here. This tea won the prestigious 3rd prize reaching 182 points out of 200.

Kabusecha is a variety of Japanese green tea that is grown under partial shade prior to harvesting. The term "kabusecha" translates to "covered tea" or "shaded tea." Kabusecha is a versatile tea, you could say it’s a little bit of everything in one cup. It has the rich, brothy depth of gyokuro and can even be brewed like one. But as you steep it a second or third time, it transforms, revealing the fresh, vibrant character of unshaded sencha.

TASTE NOTES
Competitive teas must excel in every aspect—from appearance to aroma to flavor—and this one truly does. The leaves are beautifully processed, with a rich, dark green hue thanks to shading. The aroma is comforting, reminiscent of freshly baked sponge cake, and that gentle sweetness carries through to the flavor, complemented by a remarkable umami. A subtle sourness adds a fresh character, but the tea never turns bitter.
The second and third infusions are softer and more herbal, with a delicate fruity twist. The notes of mulberries and linden create a harmonious fruity-herbal profile.

Kansai Tea Competition Scores: 200/182 points:
Appearance: 28
Fragrance: 64
Color of the liquor: 27
Flavor: 63

Place of Origin: Tsuchiyama-cho, Koka city, Shiga pref.
Producer: Yuju Saeki
Cultivar: Saemidori

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