Hoshino Seichaen Organic review

Name: Hoshino Seichaen Organic
Brand: Hoshino Seichaen
Rating: 9 (1 reviews)

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MS Rating

9.0 / 10Read review →

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Flavor Profile

Umami

3.5

Bitter

Astringent

Sweet

Product Details

Brand: Hoshino Seichaen
Origin: Yame, Fukuoka
Grade: Premium
Cultivars: Yame Blend
Sizes: 40g
Description: Hoshino Seichaen's JAS-certified organic matcha from Yame, Fukuoka. It carries the creamy body typical of Yame tea alongside a pronounced astringency that runs from the first sip through the finish, giving it a sharper, more bracing character than the house's sweeter ceremonial bowls. A good fit for drinkers who want an organic matcha with real bite.

Expert Review

Bymichael

TL;DR

A well-rounded and satisfying organic matcha with an intoxicating aroma.

Prepared as

Traditional

2g matcha

175°F

2.5 oz water

MS Rating

9.0

/ 10

In recent years, it feels like you’ve won the lottery when finding any Hoshino Seichaen matcha in stock outside of Japan. I was lucky enough to score a restock of their Organic powder, which is a relatively new addition to the lineup.

The first surprise was the aroma. As hot water splashed down on the green powder in my chawan, I was struck by a rich, roasted scent.

On first sip, I tasted a pleasant umami with a hint of the roasted, nutty flavor Yame matchas are known for. The nuttiness was toned down compared to other powders from the region, but still enjoyable. This was followed by a moderate astringency; the satisfying kind that leaves your mouth a bit dry and wanting more. It lingered long after sipping. Bitterness was low to moderate and didn’t overwhelm.

I finished the bowl feeling immensely satisfied. Hoshinoen’s Organic matcha doesn’t blow you away with any specific flavor profile, but the way each compliments the other is truly special. The value is outstanding, given you can find it from a reseller that doesn't have an absurd markup (mine was $1.05/g).