Tenryu Zai Rai

Origin: Tenryu, Shizuoka, Japan
Cultivar: Zai Rai
Elevation: 350-500m
Harvest: May 14, 2021

Kamairicha (farmer’s sickle-shaped tea) is a special type of steamed and pan fired green tea from Japan. It is noted for a balance of nutty sweetness with a slight citrus touch. Zai Rai tea trees are essentially an heirloom tea variety that are specific to the local area. Zai Rai tea is naturally propagated over many decades and takes on a character that is only found in this region. It is a real expression of terroir. In recent years, farmers have selected the best from among these indigenous cultivars to farm again to revive a bit of ancient tea history.