What cultivation technique signals a tea's ascension to the highest echelons of Japanese tea production?
Answer
Shading tea plants from direct sunlight for approximately three weeks or more
The single most significant cultivation technique associated with the highest tiers of Japanese tea is shading. By covering the tea plants and blocking direct sunlight for a period generally lasting three weeks or more before harvesting, the plant's metabolism is forced to change dramatically. This intentional deprivation slows photosynthesis, leading to a chemical transformation within the leaves that maximizes the production of desired compounds. This process is essential for developing the deep umami flavor and vibrant color characteristic of elite teas like Gyokuro and Matcha.
Related Questions
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