Genmaicha

A toasty, nutty loose leaf Genmaicha (Sencha with roasted brown rice): buttery popcorn notes, soft umami and a clean, comforting finish.

The flavour

Golden-green in the cup with a warm, cereal sweetness. Expect toasted rice (nutty, popcorn-like) over a silky Sencha base—gentle umami, fresh-cut grass and a soft, buttery roundness. As it cools, the roast deepens and the sweetness lifts.

Why you’ll love it

•  Comfort in a cup – cosy, toasty character with clean green-tea freshness.

•  Low caffeine – easy all-day sipping; calm, steady energy.

•  Versatile – gorgeous hot; naturally sweet and smooth as a cold brew.

•  Food-friendly – brilliant with savoury snacks and Japanese dishes.

Origin & craft

•  Style: Genmaicha – Japanese Sencha blended with roasted brown rice.

•  Craft: Carefully pan-roasted rice (some grains “pop”) folded through steamed green tea for balance and aroma.

•  Selection: Sencha chosen for sweetness and clarity so the roast sings without overpowering.

Brewing guide

Western style

•  2–3g per 250ml

•  80°C water

•  2–3 minutes

•  Infusions: 2 (slightly shorter second steep)

Kyusu (short steeps, Japanese style)

•  5g per 200ml kyusu/teapot

•  75–80°C

•  60–90s, then 20–30s, then 45–60s (3–4 infusions)

Cold brew (extra smooth)

•  8–10g per 1L cold, filtered water

•  Chill 4–6 hours, strain; serve chilled.

Milk? Best neat. A touch of honey is fine if you like it sweeter.

 

Ingredients – Green tea (Sencha), roasted brown rice.

Caffeine – Low (gentler than most green teas).

Storage – Keep airtight, cool and dark.

FAQs

What is Genmaicha?

A Japanese green tea blended with roasted brown rice—toasty, nutty and smooth.

Is that real popcorn in the tea?

The “popcorn” is popped rice from roasting. It adds aroma and charm.

How is it different from Sencha?

Genmaicha has Sencha’s fresh, grassy notes plus a warm, roasted flavour from the rice—rounder and more comforting.

Does it contain matcha?

Some versions do (matcha-iri Genmaicha). This blend is classic Genmaicha without added matcha for a cleaner cup. Izu Matcha can be found here.