SHUARI OKUMIDORI UJI CEREMONIAL MATCHA

A refined elegance born from the tradition of Wazuka.

The Shuari Okumidori Uji Ceremonial Matcha comes from Wazuka, Kyoto Prefecture, the most renowned Uji tea-producing area. This rare cultivar, "Okumidori," has been masterfully cultivated by one of the area's top producers, Matsuda Takayuki, and is considered a superior quality matcha.

Harvested on May 26, 2025, and covered for 27 days using the "jikagake" method (covering directly on the bushes, leaving no space), the tea is then slowly ground with a millstone on June 25, 2025, preserving the aroma and color to the fullest.

The aromatic profile is distinguished by its intense umami and the characteristic "ooika" 覆香, a captivating fragrance reminiscent of the sea and nori seaweed. The Okumidori cultivar stands out for its deep, vibrant green, combined with a delicate harmony between sweetness and slight astringency, making this matcha impeccable in every preparation.

In addition to being ideal for both usucha (light tea) and koicha (thick tea), it can also be enjoyed in more modern versions such as fine pastries or high-quality matcha lattes. It is a matcha that has no weaknesses: a perfect balance that reflects the refinement and tradition of Wazuka.

Difference with Mt. Fuji Okumidori Ceremonial Matcha from EN.

The Okumidori cultivar is the same in both cases, but what changes is the terroir : the soil, the microclimate, and weather conditions such as rain, wind, and temperature profoundly influence the aromatic and taste profile of the plant.

Even if the variety is identical, the final result can differ significantly. Some characteristic traits of Okumidori, such as its velvety texture , remain recognizable, but other nuances change depending on the growing environment.

The Ceremonial Matcha Mt. Fuji Okumidori from EN. stands out for its rich and profound taste, with a marked persistence, while the Ceremonial Matcha Shuari Okumidori Uji offers a lighter and fresher profile, with a lively flavor.

Characteristics of the Shuari Okumidori Uji Ceremonial Matcha

Producer: Matsuda Takayuki
Cultivar: Okumidori
Quantity: 25 grams
Origin: Wazuka-cho, Kyoto Prefecture – the heart of Uji matcha production.
Taste: Rich umami, enveloping marine aroma (覆香), natural sweetness well balanced by a subtle astringency.
Color: Deep and bright green, typical of the highest quality matcha.
Production process: 27-day coverage using the jikagake method, manual harvesting, and slow stone grinding.

How to prepare Shuari Okumidori Uji Ceremonial Matcha

• Usucha Preparation (light tea):

  1. Place 2 grams of matcha powder in a matcha-suitable bowl.
  2. Pour 70 ml of water at 80 degrees (bring the water to a boil and let it cool down to 80 degrees) into the bowl where the matcha has been placed.
  3. Mix using a chasen (bamboo whisk), first quickly and vigorously, then slowly until a foam with small bubbles is obtained.

  Koicha Preparation (dense tea):

  1. Place 4 g of matcha powder in a matcha bowl.
  2. Pour 30 ml of water at 80 degrees (bring the water to a boil and let it cool down to 80 degrees) into the bowl where the matcha has been placed.
  3. Mix using a chasen (bamboo whisk), first quickly and vigorously, then slowly until a foam with small bubbles is obtained.

  Preparation with cold water is also possible; the procedure is the same.

  Before the first step, we recommend warming the bowl by pouring hot water into it, then removing the water and drying the bowl with a cloth or napkin.

  We also recommend sifting the matcha powder with a sieve, because without this step, clumps may form when water is added.

  To preserve freshness, we recommend that once the matcha bag has been opened, it should be sealed tightly and stored in a cool, dry place (out of the refrigerator), away from direct sunlight.

  To preserve freshness, once opened, consume within one month.

  For storage, the unopened and sealed package should be kept in a cool place, such as the refrigerator, for up to about 6 months.

Why choose Shuari Okumidori Uji Ceremonial Matcha?

• Rarity: Okumidori is a precious and uncommon cultivar, presented here in its finest expression.
• Superior quality: Cultivated by a master like Matsuda Takayuki, using refined traditional techniques.
• 
  Unique experience: Perfect balance of taste, color and aroma, ideal for both traditional ceremonies and modern interpretations.
• Exceptional taste : Its pleasant and velvety taste, with sweet notes and almost no bitterness, makes it ideal for the most discerning palates. Its freshness and unmistakable flavor make it a unique product.
  
  

The Okumidori Wazuka Ceremonial Matcha represents the excellence of the Japanese tea ceremony: a beverage that combines tradition, refinement, and unparalleled sensory pleasure.