https://forms.gle/48rLN1nXi6vAC1YF6In this episode, the hosts delve into the intricate world of matcha blending after spending an afternoon with a top-ranked chashi. The conversation covered topics such as new and exciting cultivars, compromises made when blending lower quality tencha, and their options of Chinese matcha which might surprise you!Koto Tea Space / Chajin Life in Bangkok recorded this great video referenced in the episode where they touch on one of the theories behind the "shiro" poetic naming convention and the role chashi's have played historically: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8U25u1BuK0
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1:12:21
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1:12:21
Currency of Trust
*Correction: Uji City produced only 37.6 tons of tencha in 2024, not 70 tons. I confused this number with the area of actively farmed tea cultivation in Uji City which is 73.6 hectares (source: https://www.pref.kyoto.jp/nosan/documents/r6chachosa2.pdf)In this episode of the Specialty Matcha Podcast, Ryan and Zongjun (Sam) delve into the intricate relationship between trust and the matcha industry. They explore how trust serves as the primary undercurrent of the industry, the complexities surrounding Uji matcha, and the challenges of mislabeling and transparency in the supply chain. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the context behind matcha sourcing and production, as well as the evolving expectations of consumers in a rapidly changing market.
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Interview with Cosmic Cultures, Lissi and Zach
In this episode of the Specialty Matcha Podcast, Ryan and Zongjun (Sam) welcome Lissi and Zach from Cosmic Cultures. They discuss the importance of low intervention agricultural practices in matcha, especially regarding the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides . The conversation delves into the importance of building relationships with farmers, the evolving landscape of matcha sourcing, and the significance of educating consumers about the quality and taste of naturally grown matcha. They also touch on the future of the matcha industry and the impact of organic certifications on consumer choices.https://cosmic-cultures.com/
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Korean Matcha (Malcha)
In this episode, Ryan and Zongjun (Sam) explore the history and evolving landscape of matcha and Korean tea culture. They discuss the globalization of matcha, the impact of Japanese colonial history, and the modern practices of tea production in Korea, particularly in regions like Jeju Island but also Boseong and Hadong. The conversation highlights the unique characteristics of Korean matcha, its potential in the global market, and the cultural narratives surrounding tea. The Korean Way of Tea in History and Today (Lecturer: Brother Anthony)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KE9laWgT5gE
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Interview with Per Oscar Brekell
In this episode of the Specialty Matcha Podcast, hosts Ryan and Zongjun (Sam) talk with Oscar Brekell, a renowned expert and author in Japanese tea. He is the founder of the tea brand Senchaism, author of multiple books including A beginner's guide to Japanese Tea, and is a certified Nihoncha instructor.They explore Oscar's journey into the world of Japanese tea, the inner workings of tea research institutes, and the significance of cultivar development and processing techniques in shaping the flavors of tea. The conversation delves into the tea ecosystem in Japan, the auction systems, and the evolving landscape of matcha cultivation. Oscar emphasizes the importance of processing over terroir in determining the quality of tea and providing insights into the future of tea cultivation. This conversation explores the modern interpretation of single origin and the implications of a globalized matcha market. They also highlight the changing preferences of younger consumers and the potential future of tea consumption.Our new podcast music is here! Huge thanks to Garrett Rabian for composing and recording it.https://www.instagram.com/brekell/https://senchaism.myshopify.com/https://www.brekell.com/
The Specialty Matcha Podcast is hosted by Ryan Ahn and Zongjun Li, cofounders of Sanko Matcha Products. We discuss the growth in popularity of matcha, innovation, and matcha science. We also interview thought leaders, tea merchants, and tea educators to discuss everything from sourcing, processing, blending, milling, storytelling, health claims, and much more.
Sanko Matcha Products is a startup dedicated to using functional design to create contemporary matcha gear and the use of new technology to innovate the matcha milling process.
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