About Asatsuyu (shrub variety)

The Asatsuyu bush variety, often regarded as one of the jewels of Japanese tea culture, reveals nature's extraordinary ability to bring delicate complexity to the world of tea. Asatsuyu literally means "morning dew" and develops an unmistakable character that is known among connoisseurs as "natural Gyokuro". This term indicates that Asatsuyu naturally possesses a depth and sweetness reminiscent of high-quality, shaded Gyokuro tea, without the need for elaborate shading.

The shrub itself belongs to the species Camellia sinensis var. sinensis and is mainly cultivated in the tea gardens in Shizuoka, but also in other parts of Japan, albeit to a lesser extent. This variety is known for its bright green leaves, which are rich in amino acids, especially L-theanine. It is these amino acids that give Asatsuyu tea its distinct umami quality, a taste sensation reminiscent of ripe, sweet peas.

The production of tea from asatsuyu bushes makes it possible to capture the subtle sophistication of Japan. The cultivation of the Asatsuyu variety is challenging, as the bushes are more susceptible to weather influences and pests. Nevertheless, the effort is worth it, as this variety embodies the art of tea cultivation and production in an impressive way. The delicate leaves are usually carefully picked in spring, when their aromas and nutrients are at their most pronounced.

Traditionally, asatsuyu is often used for the production of sencha, whereby the tea is given its characteristic emerald green color and aromatic intensity through gentle steaming after harvesting. In the cup, Asatsuyu Sencha presents itself with a full body and a distinct clarity of taste. The fresh notes literally blossom on the palate to leave a long-lasting and satisfying finish.

This variety is also used in various tea blends, where it acts as a natural flavor enhancer due to its high umami content and pleasant sweetness. As a result, it not only complements the flavor profile of the blend, but also enhances its overall aromatic structure.

Asatsuyu's particular appeal lies in its ability to be interpreted in both traditional and modern ways. While purists prefer the pure taste and appreciate the delicate nuances, others experiment with the leaves in innovative creations that include both cold and hot preparations. In both cases, Asatsuyu remains a symbol of the heritage and future of Japanese tea - a testament to the intense relationship between man and nature, of which Asatsuyu tea is an impressive story.