Itteki -Sui sits in a class of its own in Marukyu Koyamaen's matcha offering and is a highly revered ceremonial matcha in part due to its rich history. The blend is favoured by the current shrine master, Myōho Takada of Daitokuji temple in Kyoto - a buddhist temple steeped in history for its associations with the origins of Japanese tea ceremony. Tea ceremony and zen buddhism go hand in hand and date back centuries to around 1190A.D. Monks use the matcha for opening the mind and allowing them to stay focused during long states of meditation. As Buddhist traditions restrict the use of strong and pungent flavours, its not wonder Itteki-Sui is the preferred choice. This blend has a soft, bright jade green appearance with the delicate, sweet and warm scent of kuromitsu (a light Japanese brown sugar). As it aerates, a deep green note with hints of minerality come through as fresh wakame comes to mind, this blooms with the savoury aroma of freshly cooked koshihikari rice. Flavourwise, it starts with light, bright grassy notes, followed by soft, delicate floral flavours. No bitterness is detected and midways a gentle sweetness comes through. An non-intrusive umami, savoury flavour at the end is clean and bright with minimal astringency. There is a distinct clarity in Itteki-sui that gives it that soft clean finish. Where Wako is bold, Itteki-sui is the anti-thesis with its delicate yet rich flavour.
Ceremonial grade matcha are given their names by a panel of Chasi (teamasters) that grade each tea. Itteki-sui '一滴翆' or 'A Drop of Jade' is a befitting name of this particular matcha as the flavours are harmonious, clear, well-balanced and delicate.
Marukyu Koyamaen's '丸久小山園', history spans 300 years, and epitomises a commitment to quality in tea production. Located in the heart of Uji, Kyoto, this esteemed tea grower, procurer, and blender boasts a private estate dating back to 1704. Their range of Japanese green teas are meticulously crafted through a combination of traditional and modern techniques and remains unparalleled in the world of Matcha making. Favoured by the tea schools, shrines, temples and widely seen in the kitchens of some of the world's best restaurants and hotels, the Marukyu Koyamaen name today is far reaching and widely recognised.
Recommended amount per cup: 2g
Servings Per Tin: Averages 20-22 cups of tea
Water Temperature: 80-85ºC
Weight | 40g
Origin | Kyoto prefecture, Japan
Itteki-Sui is part of the Matcha Favoured by Temple Range
