About Blend

In the tranquil world of Japanese tea, the term "blend" is sometimes given a subtle meaning all of its own. While in Western climes the term often refers to blends that include different types of tea, the Japanese blend celebrates the art of harmony in its subtlety.

A Japanese blend stands for the masterful ability to combine different teas or leaves from various cultivars in such a way that a new, balanced taste profile is created. This endeavor, the subtle craft of an experienced tea master, has a long tradition in Japan and is closely linked to the philosophy of perfection and aesthetics of Japanese tea culture.

Sencha teas, the classic Japanese green teas, often form the basis of most blends. The selection of tea leaves and their origin are of central importance here. The delicate bitterness of the northern tea gardens of Miyazaki could be contrasted with the velvety sweetness of the southern regions of Kagoshima. This combination of different terroir, climatic conditions and harvest times allows the blend to be given its very own character.

A remarkable example of this art can be found in the composition of Gyokuro, one of the finest Japanese teas. Gyokuro blends often combine leaves that have been cultivated in different shade conditions in order to achieve an intense umami note and a remarkably smooth aftertaste. This creates multi-layered aromas that resonate in every sip.

The blending process requires exceptional sensory sensitivity. Tea masters who achieve this mastery develop a keen instinct over many years. Every harvest, every leaf is examined intensively. The olfactory and gustatory assessment often takes place in silent reverence for the product. In this way, the blend unfolds a unique, harmonious experience in its perfection.

This approach is also often used in matcha blends to achieve specific flavor profiles that reflect both the tradition of green tea and modern innovation. Differences in color, flavor and aroma are worked out to meet the specific desires of a connoisseur-be it the sweet delicacy or the strong umami depth.

At its core, the Japanese blend not only reveals the skill and creativity of the tea master, but also honors the complex, wonderful diversity that Japanese tea culture has to offer. It is this subtle harmony of opposites - tart and sweet, light and full-bodied - that makes every sip a meditative pleasure, a small masterpiece of authentic balance.