Gyokuro is the finest Japanese green tea I have ever tasted. Also called Imperial Jade Dew because it was once reserved for the Emperor's consumption. Gyokuro is harvested from single buds that are plucked only once a year. A few weeks before harvesting, the tea plants are covered with special mattings to shield them from sunlight. This increases the amount of chlorophyll in the leaves to maximise photosynthesis, also, the plant has to rely on the earth for most of its sustenance, which may explain its unique taste. The leaves, after harvesting, are gently steamed, then rolled tightly into needles and and airdried before being packed. Husband loves this tea very much but he was constantly frustrated in his attempts to make a good cup, until a few weeks ago, when he mentioned this to Carrie, tea artist and owner of Tea Bone Zen Mind. Carrie imparted to us her special techniques to extract the best qualities of this tea and we shared our experience with friends at our recent Pot Luck dinner. Only three of the photographs were taken by me. The rest were taken by a more expert photographer, our friend slurp. Thanks slurp!! Click on the images to enjoy...
