Asanoka is a modern Japanese tea cultivar known for its unique, refreshing aroma and a well-balanced flavor profile of sweetness and umami. Its name, meaning "fragrance of the morning," aptly describes its invigorating and aromatic character.
History and Origin
- Breeder: Tea Research Institute in Chiran, Kagoshima
- Parentage: A cross between the Japanese Yabukita and a Chinese cultivar, Hiramizu.
- Registered: 1996
Asanoka is a relatively new cultivar that combines the reliability of Yabukita with the unique flavor characteristics of its Chinese parent. It was developed in Kagoshima, a major tea-producing region in southern Japan, and thrives in its warm climate.
Cultivation Characteristics
- Early Budding: Asanoka is an early-sprouting variety.
- Hardiness: It has excellent resistance to cold and is also resistant to gray blight, a common tea plant disease, making it a robust and reliable choice for farmers.
- High Yield: The cultivar is known for its high productivity.
- Appearance: The leaves are a distinct yellow-green color.
Flavor Profile of Asanoka Matcha
When processed as matcha, Asanoka offers a unique and pleasant flavor experience that distinguishes it from more traditional cultivars.
- Aroma: A fresh, exotic, and slightly floral fragrance, sometimes described as evoking mango or ripe grapes.
- Taste: A prominent natural sweetness, often compared to chestnuts or sweet potatoes, is balanced by a gentle umami and a refreshing, grassy undertone. It has very low astringency, making it smooth and easy to drink.
- Color: A bright, appealing green.
Use in Matcha Production
Asanoka's balanced and unique flavor makes it a versatile cultivar in matcha production.
- As a Blend: Its pleasant sweetness and low astringency make it an excellent component for creating well-rounded matcha blends. It can soften the bitterness of other cultivars and add a unique aromatic dimension.
- As a Single-Origin: Single-origin Asanoka matcha is prized for its unique aromatic qualities and sweet, easy-drinking flavor profile. It offers a different perspective on matcha compared to the more traditional, umami-heavy cultivars from Uji.
- For Lattes and Modern Preparations: The natural sweetness and refreshing character of Asanoka make it a great choice for matcha lattes and other modern drinks.
Summary
The Asanoka cultivar is a modern and exciting addition to the world of matcha. Its unique parentage gives it a distinctive aromatic profile and a natural sweetness that is both refreshing and satisfying. It is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a sweeter, less intense matcha, and its versatility makes it a valuable cultivar for both traditional and modern matcha preparations.