Most of the world's green tea comes from China, but Japanese green tea, as available from Clearspring, is especially prized.

In Japan, some of the best quality green tea comes from the hills around Kyoto, where the rich, slightly acidic soil provides ideal growing conditions. The local microclimate helps as well, with the early morning mists moistening the leaves of the plants, stimulating growth and shielding them from the strongest rays of the sun.

The exceptional flavour of Clearspring green tea comes from using organic growing methods in this perfect environment, along with special preparation and packing and foil sealing right on the tea estate, Nagata Chaen.

The traditional Japanese practice, not usually found elsewhere, of steaming green tea leaves immediately after picking imparts unique properties. This steaming, sometimes referred to as the sencha process, takes place within 24 hours of harvest and inhibits the enzyme activity that causes oxidisation, enabling the tea to retain its bright emerald green leaf colour and the freshest of flavours.

Scientific analysis shows that this brief steaming also boosts the antioxidant levels, enhancing the health properties of the tea.