Kawane Wa-Kōcha is Japanese Black Tea grown in Kawane town (川根町), located in the Haibara District of Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. While this area is notable for its production of mainly green teas, it may be surprising to know there are numerous growers who specialize in producing black teas as well. This particular version is produced by a rather old and famous company founded in the 8th year of the Meiji period (ca 1875). The tea blender is a 73 year old tea master and uses high quality techniques in the orthodox manner similar to the way traditional Darjeeling is made, but with a Japanese touch. This tea has characteristics similar to both Darjeeling and Ceylon tea, has a strong aroma, a smooth flavor, and has hints of Japanese sweetness. Kawane Wa-Kōcha can be served straight or with milk and sugar (usually on the last infusion). The breed is a blend of Zairai and Benifuki clones. Unlike most Japanese produced black teas which usually come from the second harvest, due to the higher latitudes this tea is grown at, the producer blends this black tea with both first and second harvests, the ratio changing according to year and conditions. The resulting tea results in a more bold flavor than normally encountered with other Japanese black teas.

To brew this particular tea, unlike with traditional green tea, you can achieve best results by bringing fresh water to nearly the boiling point in a kettle (instead of an air pot or water heater), and brewing two teaspoons per 8 ounces of water for 3 to 4 minutes.

If you also enjoy black tea in addition to Japanese green tea, consider adding this rare item to your shopping cart today!

Package includes a full 100 grams of high quality Japanese black tea.