Gyokuro facts for kids
 |
|
| Type: | Green |
|
|
|
| Other names: | 玉露, jewel dew / jade dew / pearl dew / precious dew |
| Origin: | Japan |
|
|
|
| Quick description: | One of the highest grades of Japanese tea. |
|
|
|
Gyokuro (Japanese: 玉露, "jade dew") is a very special type of green tea from Japan. It's different from most other green teas because it grows in the shade. This means it doesn't get full sunlight.
The name "Gyokuro" means "jewel dew" or "jade dew." This name describes its beautiful color and rich taste. While many green teas come from a common tea plant type called Yabukita, Gyokuro is often made from unique types like Asahi or Saemidori.
How Gyokuro Tea is Grown
Even though Gyokuro is a type of sencha tea (based on how it's made), its growing process is quite special. The tea leaves are covered and kept away from the sun for at least 20 days before they are picked.
This shading process helps the tea leaves create more of certain natural chemicals. These chemicals include theanine, which gives the tea a sweet flavor, and caffeine. The shading also gives Gyokuro its unique smell and taste.
Where to Find Gyokuro Tea
Gyokuro is one of the most expensive types of green tea you can buy in Japan. The name "Gyokuro" was first used by a tea company called Yamamotoyama. Their sixth owner, Yamamoto Kahei, first discovered this special tea in 1835.
Later, another tea maker finished developing the process for making Gyokuro. Today, a lot of Gyokuro tea, more than 40%, comes from a place called Yame. In a big tea competition in 2007, Yamecha (tea from Yame) won all the top spots for the best Gyokuro.
See also
In Spanish: Gyokuro para niños
