| ADD TO CART | ||
|---|---|---|
| 100 g | $25.35 / per cup $0.25 | |
| 250 g | $58.09 / per cup $0.23 | |
| 500 g | $105.63 / per cup $0.21 | |
Kenya ranks as one of the most bio-diverse countries on the planet. In addition to the countless species of flowers, more than 80 species of land animals and literally thousands of species of birds call Kenya home. One of the most famous of these is the flamingo. Likewise, one Kenya's most famous images is of the thousands and sometimes millions of the birds that nest along the shores of the country's picturesque lakes. Flamingos, with their scooped bills and broad wings, congregate to feed on algae that accumulate in the shallow lakes. Seen from the air, the birds form one giant, quivering expanse of pink as they jostle for position along the shore. The site is so impressive that while looking down during a flight to Kapchorua Estate to source the leaf for this Matcha, it became clear what the new tea should be called.
With the name sorted, the only thing left to do was select the perfect leaf lot to be turned into stone ground Matcha. Thankfully, as any visit to this exceptional estate will readily attest, as well known as Kenya is for its flamingos, Kapchorua is known for fabulous leaf. The estate was first planted in the 1940s and since then has garnered a peerless reputation for its husbandry, planting and manufacturing techniques. Kapchorua is also known for the fact that its bushes grow up above the "pest-line". This means that exceptional teas can be grown without the use of pesticides. In recent years, research has confirmed that this high grown leaf is also exceptionally high in antioxidants, polyphenols and deep, rich flavor, making it perfect for grinding into Matcha. One sip of this rich, frothy cup will have you exclaiming Chai tamu na halisi sana in no time! ("Very real, tasty tea" -in the local parlance.)
Tea Type: Green Matcha
Country: Kenya
Region: Nandi Highlands
Grade: Fine Matcha 10-16 micron. Made to Japanese specifications.
Altitude: 5500 - 6500 feet above sea level
Manufacturer Type: Traditional Matcha process, Small batch crafted, 100% natural.
Ingredients: Green tea
Cup Characteristics: Superb tea flavor with hints of light honey and white flower background.
Infusion: Tending dark green with golden highlights.
Brewing Matcha: One common misconception people have of Matcha is that is must be brewed according to the strict guidelines of the Cha no yu ceremony. In reality, Matcha can be brewed many different ways. We will detail some popular choices here, as well as the ceremonial method.
Brewing Hot
Hot matcha latte brewing methods - fast method: Use 1/2 tsp. (1g) per 8oz. (225ml) serving. Add 1/2 tsp. (1g) to base of cup and add 2oz. of hot water & mix vigorously to make a smooth paste-like liquid. Top with freshly steamed milk (or substitute) and sweeten to taste. (Try maple syrup or honey)
(Best and Most popular) Hot matcha latte brewing methods - Recommended method: Makes 2 cups (halve the ingredients to make 1 cup): You will need a few items to prepare Matcha Lattes:
To start, measure approximately 15oz. (450 ml) of milk into stainless steel carafe. Add 1 teaspoon or 2 matcha measures of Matcha. Stir with long spoon to combine with milk. Add 1 oz. (30 ml.) of flavoring syrup. Froth vigorously with frothing wand from espresso machine. When blend is smooth with micro bubbles, pour into cup. The aroma is great, it tastes better and you get all of the goodness from tea. Very invigorating! You may substitute 2 tablespoons of either Maple syrup, Agave syrup or Honey for the flavoring syrup to taste.
We recommend using a measuring cup to prepare and use as a training guide, and with practice a Matcha Barista should be able to prepare using a Freehand method - or also known as winging it. The measure, however, takes out the guesswork.
Don't forget to clean your equipment - this avoids contaminating future beverages.
Hot tea brewing method: Bring filtered or freshly drawn water to a rolling boil and let cool to roughly 180F/82C. Place approximately 1/2 of a teaspoon of Matcha in your cup. Infuse with 8oz/250ml of water, whisk briskly and enjoy.
Ceremonial Matcha: Please note that in order to brew Ceremonial Matcha you will need a set of Japanese tea ceremony tools. (Bowls, scoops, and a whisk).
Brewing Cold
Iced matcha latte brewing methods: Use 1/2 tsp. (1g) per 8oz. (225ml) serving. Add 1/2 tsp. (1g) to base of cup and add 2oz. of hot water & mix vigorously to make a smooth paste-like liquid. Top with freshly steamed milk (or substitute) and sweeten to taste. Cool for 30-60 minutes and pour over ice/
Slow brewed Iced Matcha: Place 3 level teaspoons of Matcha into a glass pitcher. Fill pitcher with ice and let sit. After a few hours, ice will have melted and tea brewed. Stir vigorously to ensure the Matcha goes into suspension. Pour over ice and enjoy!
Matcha Ginger Tea with crushed ice and lime: (Ingredients -2 level teaspoons of Matcha, 2 tablespoons of chopped ginger, 1/2 cup ice, juice of 1/2 lime, dash of honey)