Green tea is made from tea leaves that have not oxidised and thus retain their fresh, green character. This is achieved by rapid heating shortly after harvest, either by roasting or steaming. The character is lighter and fresher than that of the oxidised teas. In China, green teas are usually roasted while Japanese teas are usually steamed. The difference in flavour can be significant - Chinese teas tend to be light and fresh, while Japanese teas have more of an umami flavour. Both types are wonderful as mealtime drinks, both hot and cold. They bring out the subtlety of elegant ingredients but can also complement powerful and chilli-hot dishes. They have a natural flavour of their origin, nuances from soil, climate, tea plant family tree and age. This requires the grower to harvest the leaves at exactly the right moment and treat them carefully, with great craftsmanship. Our most important task is to seek out tea plants from the world's most unique tea environments, organically grown by dedicated and conscious tea makers.
On In the Mood for Tea we are proud to offer the highest quality green tea. With a fascinating history and complex flavour profile, this beverage is loved the world over. A particularly favoured variety is matcha - a unique green tea where the whole tea leaf is ground into a fine powder. This preserves a high concentration of nutrients and provides a bold and intense flavour experience. Green tea and matcha not only offer an enjoyable drink, but also contribute many health benefits, something we value and want to share with our customers.
Flavour and aroma
Green tea has a flavour profile that varies widely depending on its origin and processing method. In general, green tea has a fresh, grassy or vegetal flavour, sometimes with floral or sweet undertones. Matcha offers an intense aroma of freshly cut grass, while other varieties, such as sencha, provide an umami character, and gyokuro contributes sweeter notes. Matcha stands out for its rich, deep flavour profile, reminiscent of a verdant spring day. Green tea is also known for its natural caffeine content, which provides a mild energy boost without the side effects some people experience with coffee.
Health benefits of green tea and matcha
Green tea is rich in antioxidants, especially polyphenols, which have several health benefits. These substances can support metabolism and facilitate weight control, making green tea a popular choice among the health conscious. Matcha, in its concentrated form, may offer even more pronounced benefits. The caffeine in green tea and matcha contributes to improved mental clarity and focus, providing an energising effect without the jitters. Green tea also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help prevent disease.
Our focus on organic and sustainable tea
On In the Mood for Tea we aim to offer organic tea that is free of pesticides and fertilisers. Choosing organic green tea helps preserve the ecosystem and supports production that protects both quality and the environment. Sustainably grown teas from carefully selected farms not only offer a tasty and healthy alternative, but also provide a natural, pure flavour experience in every cup of green tea or matcha.
