Organic Gyokuro Tea (Loose) Though this tea comes from China, it is produced to Japanese specifications on Japanese machinery. The base tea is from single buds that are only available during March and April, when the best green leaf is produced. To increase the chlorophyll tea bushes are covered with bamboo and straw shading from March 1 to March 20th (more or less). The leaves are plucked about 1-2 weeks after the shading comes off. The leaves are small, less than 1 inch but extremely fragrant and tender. The plucked leaves are gently bruised and then lightly steamed, producing dark green leaves that give a slightly pungent tea with depth and character. Organic tea is produced without the input of chemical fertilizers or pesticides and herbicides. Unfortunately the yield per acre is lower and quite often quality can suffer compared to when fertilizers and other inputs are utilized. Nevertheless with good manufacturing techniques the cup characteristics can be maintained at a very high level, such is the case with this tea. Tea was introduced to Japan from China in the 7th and 8th century. Records indicate that Japan's Emperor Kammu created a government post called "Supervisor of Tea and Tea Gardens" as Japan had begun to cultivate it's own tea. From 800 to the 1200AD, Japan relied heavily on China for it's tea supply. Because tea arrived in limited quantities from China tea became a luxury. A Zen Buddhist, Eisai Myoan returned from China ( Expansive green tea flavor with delicious vegetative notes ZooScape is proud to be the exclusive distributor of TerraVita teas, herbs and supplements in the United States, Canada and around the world. Shipping Port: Shanghai Altitude: up to 2500 feet above sea level Manufacture Type: Steamed and pan-fired Cup Characteristics: Some pungency. Delicious green tea character with depth and body and a pleasant lingering finish Infusion: Tending bright forest green...

Packaged in the United States in a cGMP certified facilty (current Good Manufacturing Practice). No fillers. Manufacturer: TerraVita Size: 8 oz Loose Leaf Herbal Tea - Packed in a convenient upright pouch!