SARASOTA COFFEE & TEA CO. Gyokuro Loose Leaf Green Tea 3 oz — Shade-Grown, Umami-Rich, Resealable Pouch

Gyokuro Loose Leaf from SARASOTA COFFEE & TEA CO. is a 3 oz pouch of authentic Japanese shade-grown green tea prized for its rich umami, vivid green liquor, and silky smooth taste.

Harvested from Camellia sinensis plants grown under deliberate shade, this gyokuro emphasizes amino-acid development and sweetness rather than astringency. The whole leaves arrive in a resealable pouch to protect aroma and freshness, giving you multiple careful infusions and a true connoisseur brewing experience. Below are focused answers to the practical questions buyers usually ask when choosing a premium gyokuro.

How does gyokuro differ from other Japanese green teas?

Gyokuro is shaded for several weeks before harvest, which increases theanine and other compounds that deliver a pronounced umami character and reduced bitterness. Unlike sencha, gyokuro leaves are handled to preserve whole-leaf integrity, producing a fuller mouthfeel and deeper color in the cup.

• Shade-grown process boosts savory amino acids and sweetness.
• Whole-leaf presentation maintains delicate oils and aroma.
• Produces a bright green infusion with a smooth, lingering finish.

What’s the best way to brew this 3 oz loose leaf gyokuro?

Gyokuro is steeped at lower temperatures and for a slightly longer time than many green teas to coax out its nuanced flavors without extracting bitterness. Use a high-quality kettle and a small tea vessel or kyusu to control water contact and enjoy several re-steeps from the same leaves.

• Water temp: 120–160°F (50–70°C) for balanced flavor.
• Leaf ratio: about 3–4 g per 6–8 oz water for a concentrated cup.
• Steep times: 2–3 minutes first infusion, then shorter re-steeps.

What flavor profile and mouthfeel should I expect?

Expect a savory-forward cup with pronounced umami, delicate vegetal notes, and almost no harsh astringency. The texture is often described as silky or full-bodied for a green tea, with a clear, luminous green liquor and a long, clean finish.

• Primary taste: rich umami and mellow sweetness.
• Aromas: fresh seaweed, steamed greens, and subtle floral hints.
• Body: smooth, rounded mouthfeel with minimal bitterness.

How long does the 3 oz pouch stay fresh and how should I store it?

The resealable pouch preserves freshness for weeks to months when kept away from heat, light, moisture, and strong odors. For longer storage, place the pouch in a cool, dark pantry or transfer leaves into an airtight tin; avoid refrigeration unless vacuum sealed to prevent condensation.

• Use within 6–12 months for best aroma and flavor retention.
• Store sealed in a dark, cool place away from spices or coffee.
• Resealable pouch helps retain oils and prevent staling between uses.

Who is this for? This 3 oz Gyokuro loose leaf is aimed at tea lovers who value traditional, shade-grown Japanese leaves—home brewers seeking a superior daily ritual, collectors building a premium tea cabinet, and anyone switching from coffee who wants a clean, concentrated boost without harsh acidity. If you appreciate precise brewing, layered savory flavors, and multiple re-infusions from whole leaves, this gyokuro delivers a refined green tea experience.