Satsuma Kirari 31 Sencha
YamaguchienGrown without any pesticides or chemical fertilisers, this sencha naturally expresses the balance that this cultivar is known for, with a soft, smooth body, and a clear and crisp finish.
Producer: Yamaguchien
Region: Satsuma, Kagoshima
Cultivar: Kirari 31
Harvested: 2025
Picking: Machine
Kirari 31 is derived from a 1994 cross of Sakimidori and Saemidori and is an early-budding cultivar with high frost resistance. Compared to Yabukita, it has higher levels of amino acids and lower levels of catechins, meaning it is more umami and less bitter. Well-balanced and easy to grow, Kirari 31 has recently received a lot of attention as a potential successor to Yabukita.
Brewing Instructions
Yamaguchien (山口園)
Founded in 1978 and certified organic in 1994, Yamaguchien has been committed to producing safe, healthy, naturally-grown tea directly to consumers. Such a commitment requires immense dedication and perseverance as the struggles of organic farming can provide many hurdles and setbacks. The Yamaguchi family's hard work is evident in their tea, which is intensely aromatic and flavorful without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilisers.
Cultivating tea in Satsuma allows Yamaguchien to utilize the region's naturally suitable growing conditions to their benefit. The Sendai River's mist along with the warm climate and large swings in temperature all help to bring out the best flavour from the tea plants.