Wakoucha Mariko

This tea is called Wakoucha Mariko. Wa means "Japan" and koucha means "red tea" in Japanese. Though, in the West, we might call this a black tea, in Japan black tea is called "red tea" because of its color. Hence the name, "koucha".  This wakoucha is produced in the Mariko area in Shizuoka where Japanese black tea history and production began over 100 years ago. While Wakoucha Mariko is not only rare, it also has an elegant flavor that many black teas produced in other countries don't have. It is good as a straight tea or with milk. Origin: Mariko, Shizuoka Harvest: First Flush Species: Benifuki Tasting Profile: Elegant and calm, mild bodied, very fragrant and smooth. It has surprisingly less bitterness and astringency compared to many other red teas. Den's Preferred Brewing: Leaf-water ratio: 2-3 g (~1 tsp)/4 oz Water: Boiled; Steep: 3 min. 2nd Steep Water: Boiled; Steep 1.5 min