Yakushima Mochi Rice Genmaicha

This very unique genmaicha is made with brown mochi rice, traditionally cultivated in Japan. The puffed rice is combined with organic green tea from Yakushima, and organic matcha from Marukyu Koyamaen of Uji, Kyoto.

The small tea farm that produces this fascinating tea is deep in the mountains of Yakushima. They practice natural farming methods, in which no pesticides or chemical fertilizers are used.

We feel the clarity and refreshing energy of the sencha grown here. Its bright, chlorophyll notes are complemented by the cakey sweetness of the mochi rice.

When we brew this tea the rice and tea leaves separate, with orbs of rice floating on top of the water like little boats. However, in the cloudy, luminous green liquor they yield, the taste of the tea and the rice is entirely unified. Without any bitterness in the sencha, the sweetness of this genmaicha feels perfectly round and green.