Visiting the Sakamoto family in 2025, I was thunderstruck. Tucked deep in the countryside of Kagoshima, they are quietly producing some of the finest Gyokuro I have ever had the privilege of tasting. With a profound commitment to stewarding the land and a bold curiosity for exploring new cultivars, Sakamoto-san has achieved something truly remarkable. His ability to coax out a perfect balance of sweetness, rich umami, and an intoxicating floral aroma is unlike anything I’ve experienced. Crafted from the newly developed Haruto 34 cultivar, this tea is a revelation—a beautiful expression of place, skill, and vision.
