Hatsu Mukashi (初昔) is a ceremonial-grade matcha from Shogyokuen, a family-run tea factory in Kyotanabe, Kyoto, producing matcha since 1827. It is blended specifically for koicha, the thick, concentrated tea at the heart of the Japanese tea ceremony. Made from May-harvested leaves and stone-ground to a fine, vivid green powder, it delivers remarkable depth of flavor with a velvety, rounded finish.

Flavor Profile

• Umami: Exceptionally rich and full-bodied (5/5), with a savory-sweet depth that lingers on the palate
• Sweetness: Naturally sweet and mellow, with no added sugar
• Aroma: Fresh, deep and green, with the sweet vegetal fragrance of shade-grown tea leaves
• Astringency: Very low (4.5/5 on the smoothness scale), leaving a clean finish with little bitterness
• Texture: Ultra-fine and silky (5/5), creamy and full-bodied when prepared as koicha
• Color: Brilliant, vibrant green (5/5)

Best Enjoyed As:
Koicha (thick tea) is the finest expression of this blend. It also makes a rich, full-flavored usucha (thin tea). It is best savored on its own to appreciate its depth.