Shirehime - Maboroshi no white leaf.

White tea is rare in Japan - this one was born as a natural mutation in Yame (rather than the force-shaded white tea more common in Shizuoka), and about ten years have been spent developing this special cultivar. The leaves are yellow-green in colour, with a sweet aroma and a deep umami taste. It is referred to as a natural gyokuro but without the shading process. The leaves look more green before brewing and when enjoyed as a loose leaf tea you can watch the change in colour of the leaves to a more yellow/white colour. Also available as a matcha (ground tea).

Region: Yame, Fukuoka