Kukicha Green Tea

Kukicha, known as winter tea in Japan, is in many ways the perfect beverage to sip on a cool morning. Kukicha is made with the leafless stalks, stems and twigs left behind after Sencha production. The unusually shaped tea is traditionally harvested and processed in the fall, before the tea bushes are pruned to prepare for the winter dormancy. The tea has cool windy weather written all over it.

Like Sencha, Kukicha is also made by steaming the stalks before processing in order to halt fermentation. The cup produced is exceptionally clean, with a mild nutty flavor, malty highlights and cream on the finish. In Japan, the tea is commonly enjoyed on its own or, due to its low caffeine levels, added to fruit juices to make children's tea.

Here in the West, Kukicha has come to be regarded as an excellent part of a complete macrobiotic or vegan diet. The nutty flavor pairs exceptionally well with grain-based dishes, rice and breads and the high antioxidant count offers an added degree of dietary health. Serve it as a cool weather pick-me-up, juice additive or vegan treat, we're sure your customers will find one reason or another to fall in love.