I drink a lot of Japanese green teas, and am partial to the deeply steamed (fukamushi) senchas, so I was very pleased to see this sample in my first Steepster box. Kabuse is steamed for a shorter time, and the tea plants are shaded before picking to produce a sweeter, deeper flavor.
Upon opening the bag, the first thing you notice is the beautiful deep green leaves and hearty marine like aroma. A very good sign of the brew to come. I steeped the sample in my favorite Tokoname Kyusu teapot, at the recommended time, temperature and proportions, and was greeted by a slightly murky but bright yellow green infusion. Nice!
Flavors are bold, filled with notes of corn, peas, and the sea. Umami flavors predominate with a very slight sweetness to finish, and a very full, hearty mouthfeel. Not at all what I was expecting (I thought it would be lighter and more subtle), but definitely a tea I want to taste more of. This tea would go wonderfully with a meal but is flavorful and distinct enough to be enjoyed alone.
Flavors: Corn Husk, Dry Grass, Seaweed, Umami
