Hojicha by Tomizawa (dark roast)

TASTING NOTES: toasted grain, cocoa, savory umami, light smokiness

Dark Roasted Hojicha offers a uniquely deep and savory experience with its rich, toasted grain flavor, complemented by a smooth, earthy texture. Grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers in Kumamoto’s natural, sun-drenched fields, this antioxidant-rich tea provides a comforting balance of warmth and umami, making it perfect for those seeking a tea that is both soothing and invigorating. Ideal for cold or hot brews, it’s a versatile option for any tea lover.


PACKAGING:
WEIGHT:
€12.00

Tea character

Leaf aroma

wet soil, toasted rice, dark chocolate

Cup aroma

roasted grains,roasted chestnuts, sweet barley

Flavor

toasted grain, cocoa, savory umami, light smokiness

Tea story

In the heart of Kumamoto, Japan, the Tomizawa Tea Garden has been a testament to the rich legacy of traditional tea farming since 1928. Located in Mashiki, this family-owned farm harnesses the pure, natural waters of the region and abundant sunlight to cultivate their exceptional teas. Over the decades, the Tomizawa family has perfected the art of crafting teas that speak to the spirit of the land, and their Dark Roasted Hojicha is a perfect example of their expertise.

Made from guricha leaves—an uncommon yet cherished variety—this hojicha undergoes an extended roasting process that brings out the tea’s bold, toasted grain notes and creates a beautifully smooth texture. Unlike many other green teas, which are steamed to preserve their fresh, grassy flavors, this hojicha’s deep roast imbues it with a satisfying earthiness and warmth. The result is a uniquely rich tea with notes of roasted grains, a subtle woody undertone, and a hint of sweetness, making it the perfect choice for those who enjoy a comforting yet complex cup.

The farm’s commitment to sustainability and pesticide-free cultivation is evident in every leaf. It’s not just the flavor that stands out, but the purity of the tea itself. As the Tomizawa family carries on their legacy, this tea offers a link to both the history of the farm and the future of Japanese tea farming.

This dark roasted hojicha is not only a reflection of Kumamoto’s natural beauty but also a tea with resilience. In 2016, the devastating Kumamoto Earthquakes shook the region, and like many, the Tomizawa family faced immense challenges. Yet, this moment also became a catalyst for change—introducing their exceptional tea to the world beyond their local community. Now, with each sip of this hojicha, you experience not just the depth of flavor, but the spirit of recovery, tradition, and sustainability that defines the Tomizawa Tea Garden.

Tea Region | Mashiki, Kumamoto, Japan

Tea tree | Camellia sinensis sinensis

Cultivar | Guricha

Harvest | Summer, 2024

Picking & processing | leaves, roasted

Grilled pork belly with miso glaze
The deep roasted flavors and savory umami of this tea complement the rich, caramelized glaze on the pork belly, enhancing both the tea and the dish’s natural sweetness. The toasty notes of hojicha add complexity, while the tea’s smooth texture balances the richness of the pork.

Roasted sweet potatoes
The earthy, slightly sweet flavor of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with hojicha’s warm, roasted notes. The natural sugars in the sweet potatoes are brought out, while the tea’s deep roasted undertones enhance the dish’s richness.

Chestnut cake
The nutty sweetness of chestnut cake is perfectly matched by the roasted, savory profile of hojicha. The tea’s toasted grain and light smokiness balance the richness of the cake, elevating the dessert with a satisfying contrast.

How to brew

Temperature | 85°C

Tea weight | 5 grams

Water amount | 200ml

Steeping time | 1 min+ (you can resteep 2-3 times)

Tea weight: 5 gram
Water amount: 500 ml
Water temperature: cold to room temperature
Steep time: 3 hours

These are broad guidelines, and you can definitely adjust the water amount, temperature, tea amount, and steep time depending on your own personal taste.

Instructions:

  1. If you have a tea bag, place the leaves inside the tea bag.
  2. Place the tea bag (or tea leaves) inside your bottle or jug
  3. Fill with water.
  4. Put the bottle / jug in the refrigerator.
  5. Drink within 24 hours.

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