Agata no Shiro by Horii Shichimeien

Agata no Shiro by Horii Shichimeien is a refined, light-bodied ceremonial matcha that delivers mild, creamy flavor with subtle sweetness and a whisper of umami—a perfectly balanced everyday blend with sophisticated elegance. This approachable matcha showcases a brilliant jade-green color and smooth texture with moderate astringency, creating a harmonious taste experience ideal for both traditional usucha (thin tea) and elevated matcha lattes.

Named after the historic Agata Shrine in Uji, famous for its "peculiar festival in the dark of night," this matcha reflects the deep cultural heritage of its birthplace. Founded in 1879, Horii Shichimeien is among the few Uji tea companies that own their own tea garden—the historic Okunoyama tea garden, the sole survivor of the legendary Uji Shichimeien (Seven Famous Tea Gardens of Uji) designated by the Ashikaga Shogunate during the Muromachi period over 600 years ago.

Crafted from hand-picked young tea buds and carefully selected high-quality tencha from Kyoto Prefecture's renowned tea-growing regions, Agata no Shiro is stone-ground with precision to preserve its delicate flavor profile. The result is a refined, light matcha with a sweetish aftertaste that transcends traditional usucha aromas—versatile enough to shine in both everyday drinking and more contemplative koicha (thick tea) preparations, where its splendid, rich, full-bodied flavors truly blossom.

About this matcha:

• Mild & Creamy: Brilliant jade-green color with a mild, creamy flavor profile—subtle sweetness, gentle umami, and moderate astringency create perfect balance.
• Smooth Umami: Rich, smooth aftertaste with notes of vanilla and roasted nuts—harmonious taste that never turns harsh or bitter.
• Versatile Excellence: Ideal for usucha (thin tea), koicha (thick tea), or matcha lattes—its refined character shines across all preparations.
• Everyday Elegance: Light yet sophisticated, perfect for daily enjoyment thanks to its balance of umami and sweetness—easy to pair with or without sweets.
• Named for Tradition: Named after Agata Shrine in Uji, where this tea is used in the sacred Tea Festival known as the "peculiar festival in the dark of night."
• 600-Year Heritage: From the only remaining garden of the historic Uji Shichimeien, carrying forward centuries of tea craftsmanship and tradition.
• Complete Control: One of few tea merchants in Uji that owns their own tea garden, ensuring quality from leaf to cup.
• 100% Uji Origin: Hand-picked, shade-grown, 100% stone-ground, and processed in Uji, Kyoto—the birthplace of Japan's finest matcha.