Gokou is a prestigious tea cultivar from Uji, Kyoto, that is highly sought after for producing top-tier shaded teas, especially gyokuro and ceremonial-grade matcha. It is celebrated for its distinctive sweet aroma, rich umami, and creamy texture.
History and Origin
- Breeder: Kyoto Prefectural Tea Industry Research Institute
- Origin Location: Uji, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
- Registered: 1953 (as one of Kyoto's recommended cultivars)
Gokou is a "zairai" cultivar, meaning it was selected from a native tea plant population in Uji rather than being a modern hybrid. Its name, sometimes written as "Goko," translates to "halo" or "aura," alluding to the radiant quality of the tea it produces. It was specifically developed for its excellent performance under shade, the key cultivation method for high-grade matcha.
Cultivation Characteristics
- Shade-Loving: Gokou is a classic cultivar for shaded teas. The shading process enhances its natural sweetness and deepens its umami flavor.
- Medium-Late Budding: It is typically harvested about three days later than the Yabukita cultivar.
- Cold Resistance: The plant is strong against cold weather, making it a reliable crop in Kyoto's climate.
- Yield: It offers a stable and abundant yield, comparable to Yabukita.
Flavor Profile of Gokou Matcha
Gokou is known for producing a matcha with a unique, almost confection-like aroma and a deep, savory flavor.
- Aroma: A characteristic sweet, milky, and sometimes cacao-like fragrance.
- Taste: A rich and powerful umami flavor is at the forefront, balanced by a noticeable sweetness and very little bitterness. It is often described as having a smooth, savory, and satisfying taste.
- Color: Produces a vivid, deep green matcha.
- Mouthfeel: Exceptionally creamy, smooth, and full-bodied.
Use in Matcha Production
Gokou is a favorite among producers for creating high-end, competition-grade matcha.
- For Koicha: Its inherent sweetness, strong umami, and creamy texture make it an excellent choice for koicha (thick tea). It remains pleasant and smooth even at the high concentration required for this preparation style.
- As a Single-Origin: Gokou is frequently offered as a single-origin ceremonial matcha, allowing its unique aromatic and flavor profile to be appreciated without blending.
- Competition Grade: Its distinctive character and high quality make it a frequent winner at Japanese tea competitions.
Summary
The Gokou cultivar is a treasure from Uji, Kyoto, representing the pinnacle of shaded tea production. It produces a luxurious and distinctive matcha characterized by a sweet, milky aroma and a deep, savory umami flavor. For those looking to experience a rich, creamy, and unique ceremonial matcha, Gokou is an exceptional choice.