Cultivated Varieties of Japanese tea - Samidori
Samidori(さみどり)
An iconic Uji cultivar prized for elegant sweetness and smooth texture—ideal for high-grade matcha.
Tasting Profile
Soft sweetness, low astringency, and a creamy mouthfeel. Balanced aroma suited for both usucha and koicha.
Overview
| Registration | Registered as an official cultivar in 1954. |
|---|---|
| Origin | Native to Uji, Kyoto Prefecture. |
| Use | Suitable for both sencha and matcha; often cultivated for tencha. |
| Character | Well-recognized in Kyoto for its distinct flavor and appealing color. |
| Growth habit | Young sprouts grow upright, similar to Gokou, making it ideal for hand-picking. |
| Trend | Increasingly selected by farmers when re-planting new fields. |
2025 Field Lots
First Harvest — Single, Ceremonial May–June
| Plot Name | Shading (days) | Harvest Date (2025) | Tea type |
|---|---|---|---|
| さみどり | 22d | 2025-05-21 | Tencha |
| いせかず さみどり | 22d | 2025-05-27 | Tencha |
Second Harvest — Summer Blend (estate) July
| Plot Name | Shading (days) | Harvest Date (2025) | Tea type |
|---|---|---|---|
| いせかず さみどり | 13d | 2025-07-21 | Tencha |
| さみどり | 12d | 2025-07-26 | Tencha |
July harvests are blended as Summer Blend. Shading days reflect the latest records per lot.