CEREMONIAL OKUMIDORI MATCHA from WAZUKA

Refined elegance born from the Wazuka tradition

The Ceremonial Matcha Okumidori from Wazuka comes from Wazuka, Kyoto Prefecture, the most renowned Uji tea production area. This rare cultivar, “Okumidori”, has been expertly cultivated by one of the best producers in the area, Matsuda Takayuki, and is considered a superior quality matcha.

Harvested and subjected to 27 days of covering with the "jikagake" method (covering directly on the bushes, leaving no space), the tea is then slowly stone-ground, preserving its aroma and color to the maximum.

The aromatic profile is distinguished by its intense umami and the characteristic “ooika” 覆香, an enveloping aroma reminiscent of the sea and nori seaweed. The Okumidori cultivar is characterized by a deep and brilliant 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 pastry or high-quality matcha latte. It is a matcha with no weak points: a perfect balance that reflects the refinement and tradition of Wazuka.

Difference from EN.'s Ceremonial Matcha Mt Fuji Okumidori.

The Okumidori cultivar is the same in both cases, but what changes is the terroir: the soil, the microclimate, atmospheric conditions such as rain, wind, and temperature deeply influence the aromatic and gustatory 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 transform based on the growing environment.

The Ceremonial Matcha Mt. Fuji Okumidori from EN. is distinguished by a rich and deep taste with a marked persistence, while the Ceremonial Matcha Okumidori from Wazuka offers a lighter and fresher profile with a lively flavor.

Characteristics of Wazuka Ceremonial Matcha Okumidori

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

How to prepare Wazuka Ceremonial Matcha Okumidori

• Usucha Preparation (light tea)

1. Place 2 grams of matcha in a suitable bowl or similar.
2. Pour 70 ml of 80-degree water (bring water to a boil and let cool to 80 degrees) into the bowl.
3. Whisk using a chasen (bamboo whisk), first quickly and energetically, then slowly until a foam with small bubbles is obtained. If you don't have one, use a kitchen whisk, an electric frother, or a blender on low speed.

• Koicha Preparation (thick tea)
  

1. Place 3-4g of matcha powder in a bowl suitable for matcha.
2. Pour 30 ml of 80-degree water (bring water to a boil and let cool to 80 degrees) into the bowl.
3. Whisk using a chasen (bamboo whisk), slowly if you want to maintain a creamy consistency. If you prefer to have foam, the process is the same as for usucha.

Cold water preparation is also possible, the procedure is the same.

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

We also recommend sifting the matcha powder through a sieve because without this procedure, lumps can form when water is added.

To preserve freshness, once the matcha bag is opened, we recommend sealing it airtight and storing it in a cool, dry place (outside the fridge), away from direct light.

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

For storage, the unopened package should be kept in a cold place like the refrigerator for up to about 6 months.

Why choose Wazuka Ceremonial Matcha Okumidori

• Rarity: Okumidori is a precious and uncommon cultivar, presented here in its highest 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 demanding palates. Its freshness and unmistakable flavor make it a unique product of its kind.
  
  

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