Form
Loose leaf
Leaf
Green
Brew temp
130°F
Steep time
90 sec
The verdict
Where this pick fits.
Shaded under black cloth for three weeks before harvest — the canopy forces extra amino acids into every bud. The result is thick and sweet, ocean-mineral, with an umami depth no unshaded green can produce. Brew it cold: 130°F, a small dose of leaf, a short steep. It re-steeps five or six times before the sweetness fades.
Three weeks under shade. Amino acids build. Ocean-mineral, sweet, five-plus steeps. It earned its spot in our lineup by solving the stage it's supposed to solve — without pretending to solve every stage after it.
Quick take
- Best for:gongfu sessions, umami lovers, premium green
- Format: Loose leaf
- Leaf: Green
- Caffeine: medium
Best for
Where it earns its keep.
- · gongfu sessions
- · umami lovers
- · premium green
- · afternoon ritual
Head to head
See how it stacks up.
Common questions
Before you pour.
Is the Rishi Tea Gyokuro Loose Leaf worth it?+
Shaded under black cloth for three weeks before harvest — the canopy forces extra amino acids into every bud. The result is thick and sweet, ocean-mineral, with an umami depth no unshaded green can produce. Brew it cold: 130°F, a small dose of leaf, a short steep. It re-steeps five or six times before the sweetness fades. We keep it in the lineup for gongfu sessions and umami lovers.
How much caffeine is in Rishi Tea Gyokuro Loose Leaf?+
It sits in the medium range, which is typical for green tea. A longer steep pulls more caffeine; pull it early in the 90 sec window to keep the cup lighter.
What water temperature and steep time does Rishi Tea Gyokuro Loose Leaf need?+
Brew at 130°F for 90 sec. Our brewing guide has the full method, ratio, and water notes.
Where can you buy the Rishi Tea Gyokuro Loose Leaf?+
Through the Amazon link on this page. Buying via our link costs you nothing extra and keeps xxxtea's reviews independent.
House rule
xxxtea earns a small commission on Amazon links. Your price is identical. Our take doesn't soften for anyone.
