Houjicha is a traditional style of Japanese green tea made with bancha tea leaves from the autumn and winter harvests. An additional hot roasting step transforms bancha by way of the maillard reaction into light brown leaves that brew an amber-red infusion. While it looks dark, Houjicha is technically a green tea, offering a uniquely smooth flavor with accents of chocolate, coffee and roasted barley. The roasting step also slightly lowers the caffeine level, making for a mild cup that is delicious any time of day or night.