Tea: Emperor's Genmaicha
A Genmaicha from Octavia Tea
Brand: | Octavia Tea |
Style: | Genmaicha |
Region: | Japan |
Caffeine: | Caffeinated |
Loose? | Loose |
# Ratings: | 1 View All |
Product page: | Emperor's Genmaicha |
Reviewer: Alex Zorach
✓ 1453 teas reviewed
✓ 12 of Genmaicha
✓ 52 of Flavored Green Tea
✓ 40 of Octavia Tea
✓ 65 from Japan
Review of Emperor's Genmaicha
June 26th, 2013
Aroma | Flavor | Value | Total |
9 of 10 | 5 of 5 | 2 of 5 | 80 of 100 |
Superb | Excellent | Overpriced |
Most genmaicha is more or less similar and I often find it hard to judge them. This was not true of this tea--it was completely different, and quickly became my favorite example of this style of tea.
Without a doubt the most aromatic genmaicha that I've ever tried. The base tea has a stronger presence, and more distinctive aroma, than a typical green tea base for one of these teas.
The cup has a strong, initial popcorn-like aroma, but upon drinking, it is much more vegetal, like spinach.
This is the smoothest of Octavia's teas so far, definitely on the mellow side, but I still found it to be stronger and have a bit more kick than a typical genmaicha. More bitter and less astringent, which I like. There's also a slight sweetness, which I find very pleasant, and some umami. All of this I think points to a high-quality base tea.
Thanks again to Velvet Sky Bakery in Jenkintown for serving this one!
As excellent as this tea is, the price is astronomical. Is it worth paying? I don't know. I can't see buying this one regularly because it competes with so many top-notch green teas. For something I bought in a cafe though, it was excellent.