Hojo - Genmaimatcha - overhead view of the loose tea leaves in a white dish
Hojo - Genmaimatcha - overhead view of the brewed green tea in a white bowl
Hojo - Genmaimatcha - angled view of the loose tea leaves in a white dish
Hojo - Genmaimatcha - side view of the brewed tea in a white cup

Hōjō - Genmaimatcha

Bashōen
$28.00
Size
Flavour Profile
Sweetness
Umami
Aroma
Astringency
Bitterness
Description

This micro-batch tea is made using Bashōen’s stone-ground matcha, the same tea they mill for local tea ceremonies. This elevates it from most genmaimatcha, which are made with low-grade matcha, or even powdered sencha. Blending high-grade matcha with sencha and toasted rice produces a rich taste, smooth finish, and a deep and vibrant colour.

Hōjō (豊穣) means 'Abundant Harvest', fitting for both rice and tea.

Brewing Instructions
Use 4 g (0.14 oz) of tea leaves for every 100 ml (3.38 oz) of waterHeat your water to 75º C (167º F) or cool boiling water by pouring it into the cups, then into the teapotLet it steep for 60 seconds before pouring slowly until the last drop. Enjoy!
Bashōen — vintage sepia portrait of the founding family in formal traditional dress

Bashōen (芭蕉園)

Bashōen are a specialty tea purveyor in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture in the north of Japan. The business began in 1688 as a grain, rice, and miso shop, giving them over three centuries of experience in specialty agriculture. In 1941, the 13th generation head of the business, Seki Kiyoshi, established the Bashōen tea store as it exists today. From their background in daily foodstuffs, they took the same commitment to sourcing high-quality tea, with mottos such as "quality first, taste first' and 'those involved in daily food should look at the soil'.

Bashōen — vintage sepia group photograph of the shop's early staff in uniforms and kimono

Today, Bashōen is headed by 14th generation Seki Takashi (関孚) who strives to continue his father's dedication to good soil, quality agriculture, and Japanese tea, by sourcing and crafting teas that suit the present day while also preserving and honouring tradition.

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