New
3412

Japanese Black Tea
"KONDOWASE" WAKOCHA
by Mr. Matsukawa

Black tea WakochaJapan

TASTING NOTE

>Kondowase, a premium Japanese black tea (Wakocha).

Produced in the renowned Shizuoka Prefecture, this tea is distinguished by the use of a specific cultivar, Kondowase, traditionally used for high-quality green teas, but which here reveals a fascinating complexity once oxidized into black tea.

AROMATIC PROFILE

Kondowase Wakocha is a distinctive tea that captivates with its subtlety and clarity in the cup.

  • The Kondowase Cultivar: Usually used for premium green teas, this cultivar reveals unexpected nuances when transformed into black tea.
  • The Aromas: A delicately floral opening that unfolds into notes of honey and ripe fruit.
  • The Liquor: A clear, brilliant amber color, a testament to the perfectly controlled oxidation by our partner producers.
  • On the Palate: A silky texture and natural roundness. Its finish is clean, leaving a sweet and lingering aftertaste.

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS THINK

A true ambassador of Japanese refinement, this pure black tea is highly praised by lovers of delicate blends. Here are the key points most frequently mentioned in our customer reviews (Certishopping reviews, Google reviews, and tasting notes):

  • A rare floral elegance: Customers are often surprised by the smoothness of this tea. "It's nothing like the strength of Indian black teas; it's a bouquet of white flowers in a cup," notes one connoisseur. The aroma is described as "airy," "subtle," and "very pure."
  • A complete absence of bitterness: This is the consistently highlighted strength. Reviews emphasize a "silky" and "very smooth" brew, ideal for those who dislike the classic astringency of black teas.
  • Notes of white fruit: Many tasters detect hints of white peach and honey. "It's a natural treat that requires no added sugar," explains a loyal customer.
  • The perfect afternoon tea: Its lightness makes it a favorite companion for end-of-day breaks. Customers appreciate its "soothing" and "refined" character, perfect to accompany a delicate pastry.
  • A discovery for green tea lovers: Many customers accustomed to Sencha admit to having been won over by this Wakocha because it retains a "vegetal freshness" despite its oxidation.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF JAPANESE BLACK TEA?

Kondowase Wakocha combines the invigorating properties of black tea with the delicate flavor of Japanese cultivars, offering a very balanced wellness profile:

  • Serene and sustained energy: Its moderate caffeine content provides gentle stimulation of the nervous system, promoting alertness without the overstimulation sometimes caused by stronger black teas.
  • Rich in specific antioxidants: The oxidation process, controlled by Hiroki Matsumoto, develops theaflavins and therubigins, polyphenols that support cardiovascular health and combat cellular aging.
  • Digestive comfort: Traditionally, Japanese black tea is renowned for its lightness. It aids digestion after meals while being very gentle on sensitive stomachs thanks to its low content of harsh tannins.
  • Reduction of oxidative stress: The superior quality of the Kondowase cultivar leaves guarantees high nutritional density, helping the body better resist external stressors.
  • A moment of mental relaxation: The floral and honeyed aromatic profile of this tea promotes an immediate feeling of relaxation, ideal for reducing stress and offering a moment of calm during the day.

WHY CHOOSE THIS JAPANESE BLACK TEA?

This is a connoisseur's tea, ideal for those seeking:

  • Exceptional Terroir: Grown at the foot of Mount Fuji, this tea benefits from the centuries-old expertise of the Shizuoka tea gardens.
  • Naturally Smooth: Unlike some black teas from India or Ceylon, Japanese Wakocha is naturally low in harsh tannins. It is best enjoyed plain, without sugar or milk.
  • Rarity: Black tea represents only a tiny fraction of Japanese production. Kondowase Wakocha is therefore a choice of distinction for connoisseurs and those seeking something truly unique.

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR "KONDOWASE" BLACK TEA?

To fully appreciate the floral nuances of Kondowase without overpowering its aromas, precise preparation is essential:

  • Temperature: Use spring or filtered water between 75°C and 85°C. Boiling water could mask the subtle white flower notes.
  • Brewing Time: A 2 to 3 minute infusion is ideal. This perfectly balances the structure of the Wakocha and its fruity aromas.
  • Dosage: Use approximately 2.5g of tea (one heaped teaspoon) per 150ml of water.
  • Gastronomic Pairing: This is a tea of ​​rare elegance. It beautifully complements delicate pastries, vanilla macarons, or white fruit desserts, highlighting their subtlety.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

  • Ingredients: Black tea
  • Type of tea and origin: Black tea from Japan (Shizuoka). Kondō Wase cultivar.
  • Master of tea: M. Matsukawa   
  • Can be re-infused: 2
  • Number of infusions for 50g: about 20
  • Reference : 3412

> Learn more about the producer Yohei Matsukawa

Ref. 3412
New

Japanese Black Tea
"KONDOWASE" WAKOCHA
by Mr. Matsukawa

Black tea WakochaJapan

classé dans : Black teas

TASTING NOTE

>Kondowase, a premium Japanese black tea (Wakocha).

Produced in the renowned Shizuoka Prefecture, this tea is distinguished by the use of a specific cultivar, Kondowase, traditionally used for high-quality green teas, but which here reveals a fascinating complexity once oxidized into black tea.

AROMATIC PROFILE

Kondowase Wakocha is a distinctive tea that captivates with its subtlety and clarity in the cup.

  • The Kondowase Cultivar: Usually used for premium green teas, this cultivar reveals unexpected nuances when transformed into black tea.
  • The Aromas: A delicately floral opening that unfolds into notes of honey and ripe fruit.
  • The Liquor: A clear, brilliant amber color, a testament to the perfectly controlled oxidation by our partner producers.
  • On the Palate: A silky texture and natural roundness. Its finish is clean, leaving a sweet and lingering aftertaste.

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS THINK

A true ambassador of Japanese refinement, this pure black tea is highly praised by lovers of delicate blends. Here are the key points most frequently mentioned in our customer reviews (Certishopping reviews, Google reviews, and tasting notes):

  • A rare floral elegance: Customers are often surprised by the smoothness of this tea. "It's nothing like the strength of Indian black teas; it's a bouquet of white flowers in a cup," notes one connoisseur. The aroma is described as "airy," "subtle," and "very pure."
  • A complete absence of bitterness: This is the consistently highlighted strength. Reviews emphasize a "silky" and "very smooth" brew, ideal for those who dislike the classic astringency of black teas.
  • Notes of white fruit: Many tasters detect hints of white peach and honey. "It's a natural treat that requires no added sugar," explains a loyal customer.
  • The perfect afternoon tea: Its lightness makes it a favorite companion for end-of-day breaks. Customers appreciate its "soothing" and "refined" character, perfect to accompany a delicate pastry.
  • A discovery for green tea lovers: Many customers accustomed to Sencha admit to having been won over by this Wakocha because it retains a "vegetal freshness" despite its oxidation.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF JAPANESE BLACK TEA?

Kondowase Wakocha combines the invigorating properties of black tea with the delicate flavor of Japanese cultivars, offering a very balanced wellness profile:

  • Serene and sustained energy: Its moderate caffeine content provides gentle stimulation of the nervous system, promoting alertness without the overstimulation sometimes caused by stronger black teas.
  • Rich in specific antioxidants: The oxidation process, controlled by Hiroki Matsumoto, develops theaflavins and therubigins, polyphenols that support cardiovascular health and combat cellular aging.
  • Digestive comfort: Traditionally, Japanese black tea is renowned for its lightness. It aids digestion after meals while being very gentle on sensitive stomachs thanks to its low content of harsh tannins.
  • Reduction of oxidative stress: The superior quality of the Kondowase cultivar leaves guarantees high nutritional density, helping the body better resist external stressors.
  • A moment of mental relaxation: The floral and honeyed aromatic profile of this tea promotes an immediate feeling of relaxation, ideal for reducing stress and offering a moment of calm during the day.

WHY CHOOSE THIS JAPANESE BLACK TEA?

This is a connoisseur's tea, ideal for those seeking:

  • Exceptional Terroir: Grown at the foot of Mount Fuji, this tea benefits from the centuries-old expertise of the Shizuoka tea gardens.
  • Naturally Smooth: Unlike some black teas from India or Ceylon, Japanese Wakocha is naturally low in harsh tannins. It is best enjoyed plain, without sugar or milk.
  • Rarity: Black tea represents only a tiny fraction of Japanese production. Kondowase Wakocha is therefore a choice of distinction for connoisseurs and those seeking something truly unique.

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR "KONDOWASE" BLACK TEA?

To fully appreciate the floral nuances of Kondowase without overpowering its aromas, precise preparation is essential:

  • Temperature: Use spring or filtered water between 75°C and 85°C. Boiling water could mask the subtle white flower notes.
  • Brewing Time: A 2 to 3 minute infusion is ideal. This perfectly balances the structure of the Wakocha and its fruity aromas.
  • Dosage: Use approximately 2.5g of tea (one heaped teaspoon) per 150ml of water.
  • Gastronomic Pairing: This is a tea of ​​rare elegance. It beautifully complements delicate pastries, vanilla macarons, or white fruit desserts, highlighting their subtlety.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

  • Ingredients: Black tea
  • Type of tea and origin: Black tea from Japan (Shizuoka). Kondō Wase cultivar.
  • Master of tea: M. Matsukawa   
  • Can be re-infused: 2
  • Number of infusions for 50g: about 20
  • Reference : 3412

> Learn more about the producer Yohei Matsukawa

  • -10%
Qty - +
9,80 €
Add to cart

  • 4 free samples with your order

  • 10% discount. Sign up for our newsletter

  • LOYALTY PROGRAM. Earn points with your orders and win prizes. €1 = 10 points
Conseil de préparation

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED ...

Organic japanese black tea from the Kakegawa region.
 View product
Best-seller ORGANIC KAKEGAWA WAKOCHA ORGANIC KAKEGAWA WAKOCHA ORGANIC KAKEGAWA WAKOCHA ORGANIC KAKEGAWA WAKOCHA Black tea Wakocha | Japan from 13,80 €
Japanese black tea smoked with chips of whisky's barrels.
 View product
Best-seller KUNKO WAKOCHA KUNKO WAKOCHA KUNKO WAKOCHA KUNKO WAKOCHA Black tea | Japan from 13,80 €
A sweet aroma
and full body.
 View product
SILONIBARI, BPS (CTC) SILONIBARI, BPS (CTC) SILONIBARI, BPS (CTC) SILONIBARI, BPS (CTC) Black tea | India from 5,00 €

  • The Producer: Yohei Matsukawa

    Based in the historic Mariko district of Shizuoka, Yohei Matsukawa is a tea artisan whose reputation extends far beyond Japan's borders. Mariko is a renowned tea-producing area, notably for being one of the first to revive Wakocha (Japanese black tea) production after decades of green tea dominance.

    Mr. Matsukawa is recognized for his exceptional technical skill, but above all for his close relationship with an extremely rare cultivar: Kondō Wase.

    His Terroir and Vision

    The Matsukawa family's tea plantations are located on steep mountain slopes, where the harsh but ideal climatic conditions are perfect for concentrating the aromas.

    • Hand-Harvesting: Unlike the widespread mechanization in Shizuoka, Mr. Matsukawa favors hand-harvesting from untrimmed (free-form) tea bushes. This method preserves the integrity of the leaves and allows for rigorous selection.
    • Master of oxidation: Matsukawa's genius lies in his ability to adapt oxidation. While he produces renowned green teas (Shincha), his move to black tea was a revelation: he managed to tame the "Indo-Japanese" genetics of the cultivar to eliminate bitterness and retain only the aroma.

  • His Specialty: The Kondō Wase Cultivar

    Kondō Wase is Mr. Matsukawa's "treasure." Here's why his work with this tea is unique:

    • An absolute rarity: This cultivar is grown by only two producers in the entire Mariko district.
    • The perfect hybrid: It's a cross between Yabukita (Japan) and an Assam variety (India). Mr. Matsukawa manages to extract the aromatic power of Assam while preserving the typically Japanese finesse and lightness.
    • A signature sensory experience: In his hands, this tea develops notes of grape, jasmine, and honey—a signature that Lupicia connoisseurs recognize instantly.

    Why is he a key figure for Lupicia?

    Lupicia collaborates closely with Mr. Matsukawa because he embodies the excellence of single-origin tea. By offering its teas, the Lupicia company guarantees direct access to the expertise of a "Tea Master" who controls each step, from the field to the final roasting.

  • Terroir and Expertise

    Grown on the sunny slopes of Shizuoka, this tea benefits from an ideal climate where alternating mists and sunshine allow the leaves to develop concentrated aromas. The withering and oxidation process is carried out with meticulous precision by local artisans to preserve the freshness of the leaves while developing the sweet roundness of the black tea.

    About the Kondō Wase Cultivar

    It occupies a unique place in Japanese tea cultivation, particularly in Shizuoka Prefecture. Initially selected for its earliness—the term "Wase" meaning "early" in Japanese—it allows producers to harvest the first spring shoots before other varieties such as the famous Yabukita. Although historically prized for making Sencha green teas with vibrant aromas, this cultivar reveals its full potential when transformed into black tea (Wakocha).

    Thanks to its unique leaf structure, Kondō Wase develops a remarkably elegant aromatic profile during oxidation, characterized by ethereal floral notes and a fruity sweetness reminiscent of white-fleshed fruits. It is a cultivar of choice for connoisseurs of fine Japanese black teas, seeking a clear liquor, low astringency, and a natural complexity that can be enjoyed without sugar or milk.

Welcome to the world of black teas, the most consumed tea family worldwide. Unlike green tea, black tea undergoes complete oxidation. This artisanal process transforms fresh leaves into a treasure trove of coppery, woody, and malty flavors, resulting in an intense brew and exceptional preservation.

At LUPICIA, we select the finest leaves for you from the most prestigious gardens, from the Himalayas to the volcanoes of Kenya, and including the hidden terroirs of Japan.

Wakocha (Wakoucha): Japanese Black Tea

Long overshadowed by the famous green tea, Japanese black tea, or Wakocha, is now experiencing a spectacular renaissance. "Wa" symbolizes Japan, and "Wakocha" means red tea (black tea). Unlike Indian teas, Wakocha is distinguished by its great smoothness, a very fine astringency, and naturally sweet notes reminiscent of flowers or ripe fruit.

Our exceptional teas from Japan:

  • Kakegawa: Originating from Shizuoka Prefecture, this tea reflects the essence of Japanese terroir. Its liquor is smooth and balanced, ideal for those seeking a pure and delicate black tea, best enjoyed plain to fully appreciate its nuances.
    > Discover Kakegawa Japanese black tea.
  • Kondowase: This tea, from a single cultivar, offers a rare sensory experience. It is characterized by aromatic freshness and an elegant mouthfeel that testify to the precision of Japanese processing.
    > Discover Kondowase Japanese black tea.
  • Kunko Wakocha (Smoked Black Tea): For those who enjoy intense flavors, this smoked Japanese black tea is a marvel. Unlike classic smoked teas, which can sometimes be too powerful, Kunko Wakocha offers a subtle and refined smokiness, bringing a woody and mysterious dimension that pairs divinely with savory dishes or rich chocolates.
    > Discover Kunko Wakocha Japanese black tea.

A Journey Through the World's Terroirs

India: Land of Contrasts

India is the cradle of legendary teas that LUPICIA selects with great care:

  • Darjeeling: Nicknamed the "Champagne of Teas," this tea has Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. Grown at the foot of the Himalayas, it offers unique muscatel notes. The spring harvest (First Flush) is floral, while the summer harvest is fruitier and amber-hued.
  • Assam: Originating in the Brahmaputra Valley, Assam tea is powerful, full-bodied, and malty. It is the essential base for a truly energizing "Breakfast Tea."
    > Discover our Indian teas.

Sri Lanka: The Elegance of Ceylon

Renowned for their smoothness, Ceylon teas offer a magnificent coppery-red hue.

Africa and Kenya: The Power of Altitude

Kenya has made its mark thanks to its teas grown on the slopes of Mount Kenya. LUPICIA favors gardens like Kangaita, which work with the whole leaf, far removed from industrial standards, to offer a vibrant and full-bodied brew.
> Discover our African teas.

Understanding the Grades: SFTGFOP, BOP, CTC

The nomenclature used to differentiate black teas defines the fineness of the plucking:

  • SFTGFOP (Super Fine Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe): The highest grade, rich in golden buds (tips), guaranteeing maximum aromatic complexity.
  • BOP (Broken Orange Pekoe): Broken leaves that quickly release a strong liquor, ideal for the morning.
  • CTC (Cut, Tear, Curl) Method: A process where the leaf is rolled into small balls, perfect for a strong infusion, often used for preparing Chai.

Why choose LUPICIA black teas?

Choosing a LUPICIA black tea guarantees a tasting experience where the Japanese tradition of excellence meets the world's finest terroirs. Our company is committed to three fundamental pillars to ensure tea of ​​impeccable quality:

  1. Preserved freshness, from the garden to your cup
    Unlike traditional distribution channels, LUPICIA focuses on speed and the protection of aromas. Our buyers select batches directly from the plantations (Darjeeling, Assam, Ceylon, Japan). Once harvested, the leaves are immediately vacuum-sealed and shipped. This process prevents the alteration of essential oils and offers you a black tea with an aromatic bouquet as vibrant as if it had just come from the factory.

  2. Safety and purity at the heart of our commitment
    Our customers' trust is our priority. Each batch of tea undergoes rigorous testing to guarantee the absence of pesticide residues, in accordance with the strictest health standards. We apply the Japanese methodology—one of the most demanding in the world—so that every infusion is a moment of pure, healthy, and serene pleasure.

  3. The Art of Blending and Flavoring
    The expertise of our blenders is the soul of LUPICIA. Creating a balanced Earl Grey or a fragrant black tea like White Peach Oolong requires the precision of a master craftsman. We use only high-quality black tea bases, selected for their structure, so that the natural aromas (flowers, fruits, spices) harmonize perfectly without ever masking the inherent quality of the leaf.

  4. Innovative Packaging
    To protect your tea from air, light, and humidity, we offer our black teas in airtight tins with an iconic design or in optimized refill bags. Every detail, down to the shape of our pyramidal bags, is designed to allow the leaves (whole or broken) to fully unfold and release their full tannic power.

Essential Teas and the Art of Tasting

Earl Grey: Bergamot in All Its Forms

A true English classic, Earl Grey is a black tea flavored with bergamot. At LUPICIA, we respect this tradition while offering exclusive variations to enhance this Italian citrus fruit.
> Discover our Earl Grey teas with bergamot.

Chai Tea: Awakening Spices

Chai is a blend of black tea and spices (ginger, cinnamon, cardamom). For a perfect Chai Latte, we recommend pairing it with cow's milk for creaminess, or oat milk for a velvety plant-based alternative.

Russian Teas: A Tradition of Character

  • The "Russian Taste" is an institution in the world of tea. Historically linked to the caravans that transported tea from China to Russia, this style is defined by blends of black teas (often from China and India) combined with citrus fruits.
  • The Samovar: Traditionally, the tea was brewed highly concentrated at the top of the samovar, then diluted with hot water.
  • Aromatic Profile: Our Russian teas feature notes of bergamot, lemon, or orange, creating a perfect balance between the strength of black tea and zesty freshness.
    > Discover our citrus teas.


Tea and Chocolate Pairings

Black tea and cocoa share a complex tannin profile. A malty Assam enhances a rich dark chocolate, while a summer Darjeeling highlights the fruity notes of a ganache. For a bold experience, pair our smoky Kunko Wakocha with praline chocolate.