Although it was machine-harvested, this Gokô cultivar gyokuro from Uji-Tawara is still a fine example of typical gyokuro aromas and the Gokô shaded tea cultivar.
This gyokuro was made by Mr. Katsutani in the highly reputed Kuwabara cooperative facility at Zenjôji in Uji-tawara. That ancient factory is known for the special aromas of the teas produced there. It is very old, with a high ceiling and venerable machines. It must also be said that not much attention is paid to the shape of the leaves of the tea that is made there. This gyokuro is also more deeply steamed than average.
As much in the nose as in the mouth, this is a very intense gyokuro. It has a green vegetal fragrance and, especially, a fig confit scent that is unique to this cultivar.
In the mouth, the attack is powerful and the typical gyokuro umami is present. It is round, velvety and has no astringency. Again, these aromas are typical of the Gokô variety. The vegetal aroma has moved far into the background and fruity aromas, with figs as the primary note, are now very present.
The aftertaste is very strong and persistent, with a hint of something that evokes honey.
This is a very nice little gyokuro that once again shows the diversity of possibilities offered by the Gokô variety.

Type of tea : gyokuro
Origin : Zenjôji, Uji-Tawara Community, Tsuzuki District, Kyôto Prefecture
Cultivar : Gokô
Shading: 24 days (ceiling-shelf covering)
Harvest : May 18th, 2024