About Shiraore

Shiraore, also known as "Kuki-cha", is a special Japanese tea made from the leaf stems and veins of the tea plant. This tea, which literally means "white stalks", is an integral and fascinating component of the Japanese tea tradition, which impresses with its mild, sweet notes and unique appearance.

Shiraore is characterized by a light cup color and a gentle taste that is both slightly nutty and subtly sweet. These flavor notes are not least due to the stems it contains. Unlike the more crushed leaves of other teas, the stems contribute to the fact that this tea has a lower tannin content, which contributes to its gentle character. Similarly, the lower caffeine content affects the flavor profile, making Shiraore an excellent choice for people who like the calming quality of tea without the stimulating effects of caffeine.

Shiraore is usually made from selected leaves and stems from the production of Sencha or Gyokuro. The stems often come from high-quality Sencha or even Gyokuro harvests, which enhances the taste of Shiraore and gives it a noble note. The tea is usually processed by steaming, similar to Sencha, which preserves its herbal aromas and freshness. Steaming ensures that the strong, natural green notes are enhanced while the tea retains a light, velvety character.

In Japanese tea culture, Shiraore is particularly popular in western Japan, in prefectures such as Kagoshima and Fukuoka. There it is valued not only for its sweet, light flavor, but also for its ability to reflect the differences in regional terroir in an impressive way. Shiraore is often served on special occasions and represents the terror of nature combined with the craftsmanship of Japanese tea masters.

The preparation and enjoyment of shiraore are equally important. A water temperature of around 70 to 80 degrees Celsius is recommended, which allows the fine aromas and delicate, sweet undertone to unfold optimally without over-brewing the tea. The infusion time should be around one to two minutes to bring out the full-bodied aroma to the maximum without causing bitterness. This careful brewing method is essential to preserve the subtle balance of the different flavors.

Shiraore is therefore not just a tea, but an experience; an invitation to immerse yourself in the subtleties of the Japanese art of tea and to integrate the harmony it radiates into your own world of enjoyment.