Brewing Instructions for Kaogshima First Flush Japanese Green Tea

Most people think that preparing tea is a no-brainer. You just pour hot water over dry leaves or a tea bag and drink when the tea looks ready, right?

This might be an acceptable method for most people, but this is not really how you get the most out of your tea, especiallygreen tea. Takahiro Ino, Japanese Tea Instructor and owner of Mauna Kea Tea explains the subtleties involved with brewing a good cup of green tea.

Brewing green tea is more art than science. Brewing results vary according to steeping time, volume of tea and water, water quality, and water temperature. Various combinations of these basic elements result in different flavors and aroma. You can experiment to find the taste you prefer.

Suggested Preparation for 2-3 Servings:

Leaf	Water	Temp	Time
2 tsp.	8 oz.	165°	30-45 seconds

1. Boil water and cool to approximately 165° (2-3 minutes).

2. Brew tea and pour into cups distributing concentration evenly.

3. A second pot can be brewed from the same leaves. Drain all of the tea water from the first brew, add new water, and brew for 5 seconds.

Fine teas are best enjoyed without milk, sugar or honey.  Pair the tea with Volcano Island Honey spread on toast, croissant, cornbread, muffin, cracker or other snack.