Kaneroku Matsumoto's Sakura wood smoked black tea blends the gentle fragrance of cherry blossom wood with a rich, smoky profile. The tea has very gentle but potent notes of dark cherry and roasted chestnuts, with a smooth, lingering sweetness. The perfect bold yet soothing cup that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Sakura wood smoked black tea
TASTING NOTES: dark cherries, plum compote, dark chocolate, charred chestnuts
€19.00
/
Tax included.
Tea Region
Tea tree
Cultivar
Harvest
Picking & processing
Shimada, Shizuoka, Japan
Camellia sinensis sinensis
Satsuma-beni
Spring, 2022
Leaves, fermented, smoked
In the heart of Shimada, Shizuoka, tea farmer Hiroki Matsumoto of Kaneroku Matsumoto Tea Garden stands at the forefront of innovation. Born into a long lineage of tea farmers, Matsumoto-san’s journey diverged from tradition when he began experimenting with unique techniques, seeking to create teas that defied conventional labels. Instead of producing Shizuoka-cha or Shimada-cha like those around him, he envisioned something entirely his own—a tea that embraced both local heritage and fresh creativity.
The Sakura Wood Smoked Black Tea is a perfect embodiment of this vision. Grown using the GIAHS-certified chagusaba method, which nourishes the tea bushes with native grasses, the tea leaves are meticulously harvested, then smoked over wood from Japanese cherry blossom trees sourced from the famed Ichiro Distillery in Chichibu, Tokyo. This technique infuses the tea with an unmistakable smokiness that evokes the essence of springtime in Japan.
With no flavorings or additives, this black tea carries a naturally bold, woodsy aroma layered with floral undertones. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, its versatility invites exploration—be it as a refreshing beverage or an inventive addition to culinary creations.
Dark chocolate desserts
The rich smokiness of the tea complements the deep bitterness of dark chocolate, making it an ideal pairing for chocolate truffles or flourless chocolate cake.
Roasted nuts
Pair with smoked almonds or pecans, which harmonize beautifully with the tea’s nutty undertones and enhance its roasted flavors.
Aged cheese
The tea’s bold, smoky profile makes it an excellent match for aged Gouda or smoked cheddar, where the creaminess of the cheese contrasts with the tea’s depth and adds complexity to the pairing.
Grilled meats
The tea’s woodsy, robust flavors would pair exquisitely with charcoal-grilled lamb or smoked brisket, where the savory, smoky notes echo those found in the tea.
Berry tarts
The light fruity notes in the tea complement the sweetness of blackberry or cherry tarts.
Tea character
Leaf
cherry wood smoke, dried rose petals, toasted almonds
Cup
dried cherries, black currants, warm caramel, cherry wood
Flavor
dark cherries, plum compote, dark chocolate, charred chestnuts
How to brew
Temperature
Tea weight
Water amount
Steeping time
90°C
4 gram
100ml
5-10 sec (add 5 sec per steep for at least 6 steeps)
Temperature
Tea weight
Water amount
Steeping time
90 °C
4 gram
500ml
1 min+ (you can resteep 2-3 times)
What teaware to use
About Kaneroku Matsumoto
At Kaneroku Matsumoto tea farm, the commitment to sustainable farming is as integral as the tea itself. The farm employs a “Traditional tea-grass integrated tea culture,” a method recognized as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System.
