Kabusecha 2021 Launch Tasting

With great excitement we announce the arrival of the 2021 Japanese Kabusechas. Kabusechas are premium Japanese teas, which are grown in the spring season, covered from the sun for 1-2 weeks. The reduced sunlight increases the amino acids in the leaf, resulting in teas which are rich in umami flavour. Shaded Japanese teas are a revelation, and ideal for pairings.

Tea has varietals, like wine. This year we’ve chosen three single-varietal Kabusechas for our collection: Okumidori, Saemidori, and Yabukita. These three teas were made on the same garden, in a similar way, at a similar time, just from different varietals to highlight the effect of the varietal on flavour. In probably a first for the UK, we’re launching them with a single-varietal, horizontal tasting on the 21st of April, upstairs at Taka Restaurant in Marylebone.

Doors will open from 16:00. At 16:30, the event will begin with an educational introduction to Japanese teas, particularly Kabusechas. We’ll then dive into a horizontal tasting of the three single-varietal Kabusechas from the Henta family, comparing the taste of each varietal side-by-side, and looking at other variables which influence the flavour. There will be the opportunity to ask questions, share tasting notes, and discuss pairings.

The tasting is free to attend for our colleagues in the trade. After the tasting there will be a catch up and networking dinner from 18:30, for which Taka have prepared a menu (below). The price is £35 plus service, to be paid directly to Taka on the day. Please choose from the dropdown list above whether you will join for the tasting, or both tasting and dinner. We look forward to seeing you as we push the boundaries of tea knowledge and gastronomy with this unique single-varietal tasting.

Iced Hojicha Cocktail

Fresh ginger, Hojicha tea, matcha syrup, citrus blend

Salmon Loch Duart tataki

Or

Mochi flatbread wasabi tomato salsa (V)

Botterils yaki tsukune

Or

Popcorn shrimp tempura

Or

Truffled seasonal vegetables (v)

Bluefin tuna crunch roll

Or

California roll

Or

Avocado roll (v)

£35 plus service