The one that almost got away —
Karabeni Single Cultivar Shizuoka Oolong
At Hvala, we believe in the beauty of every fleeting moment, which is why we’re thrilled to introduce our latest
'Ichi-go Ichi-e' tea in the series - Karabeni Single Cultivar Oolong. This tea is a masterpiece of both tradition and innovation, crafted by a family tea farm in Shizuoka.
For those new to tea, let’s talk about cultivars. A cultivar is a plant variety that has been selectively bred for specific characteristics. In the world of tea, different cultivars can affect everything from flavour to aroma and even the way the tea grows. Think of it like different grape varieties in wine—each cultivar offers its own unique taste and experience.
The oolong is made from the rare Karabeni cultivar, a true hidden gem. This cultivar was developed in 1956 at the Shizuoka Prefecture Research Centre, from tea tree seeds brought to Japan from Hubei Province in China. However, due to the end of government support for black tea production in Japan in the late 1960s, the Karabeni cultivar never had the chance to prove itself or be officially registered, making it even more unique.
The tea farm that harvests this special cultivar typically crafts their oolong teas from the summer’s second flush, but in 2019, they experimented with the delicate first flush leaves, resulting in this batch of tea harvested in mid-May 2019.
Grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilisers in the serene region of Nearaicho, Shizuoka, this tea offers a pure and clean flavour that embodies the essence of nature. With each sip, you’ll experience a smooth, balanced taste with a gentle complexity — perfect for those who may not consider themselves tea aficionados.
Whether you're a seasoned tea lover or simply curious, the Karabeni Single Cultivar Oolong is a testament to the uniqueness of each moment. At Hvala, we invite you to pause, savour, and cherish this exquisite creation, as every cup is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
This tea is only available at our Takashimaya S.C. outlet, for a limited time.
