Houun (strong tea)

Hōuun – Okunishirokuhoen (Kyoto)

• Aroma: Bright and refreshing — a blend of fresh green tea leaves, a hint of roasted seaweed, and subtle floral undertones

• Flavor:

  • Rich umami: Bold and savory profile that holds up nicely in both thick koicha and thinner usucha

  • Sweet & creamy: Smooth and velvety, finishing with pleasant natural sweetness

  • Mild bitterness: Just enough sharpness to balance the sweetness—without any harsh astringency

Taste-Based Rating: ★★★★☆

Hōun is a well-balanced ceremonial matcha—rich, creamy, and smooth with just the right touch of umami and sweetness. Its mild bitterness rounds out the flavor without overpowering, making it versatile for both usucha, koicha, and even matcha lattes.