The First Flush Sencha, sourced from the Okumidori cultivar in the lush tea gardens of Wazuka, Kyoto, marks the initial harvest of the Spring season around May 2023. Shaded for slightly less than two weeks, this tea offers a rich and satisfying umami flavor. The specific duration and technique of shading significantly influence the overall taste profile. Consequently, the tea presents a velvety smooth taste with savory umami and seaweed notes.
Decreasing the amount of sunlight makes the tea plant work harder during photosynthesis thereby increasing the theanine level in the leaf. This results in a more complex flavour profile especially important for high quality sencha. 
 
Okumidori, a Japanese cultivar known for its naturally sweet flavor, contributes to the tea's unique profile. It serves as an excellent choice for a pick-me-up or a comforting afternoon tea, depending on the occasion or mood.