Kukicha Twig Organic Tea - 16 - Bag by Eden Organic

EDEN Organic Kukicha Tea is crafted from four different clippings of the tea bush (Camellia sinensi). The first clipping is from three year old, semi-wild plants, from which twigs from the under part of the bush are trimmed in autumn. The second clipping consists of thick twigs, which are harvested every 10 years, usually in mid-winter. During the autumn and winter the caffeine level is at its lowest. The third and forth clipping, done every year in March and June, consists of small, thin twigs, stems and mature brown dried leaves. These are the pruning that stimulate the growth of fresh green shoots. After harvesting the twigs are steamed to soften them, and then place outside to dry in the sun for about one week depending upon the weather. Next, the sun dried twigs are placed in brown paper sacks and stored for 2 to 3 years in order to fully develop the best flavor. This process is called aging. After aging, the twigs are cut, and graded according to size. The twigs are separately roasted, according to size, to ensure even roasting, in gas fired cast iron rotating ovens. This patient and ceremonious roasting slowly develops the distinctive smoky flavor and aroma that has made Kukicha Tea so popular among macrobiotic and natural food aficionados. Also known as 'twig tea', Kukicha is the lowest in caffeine of the traditional teas. EDEN Organic Kukicha Tea contains 90 percent less caffeine than regular brewed coffee. It is soothing and balancing with a rich flavor and is an ideal meal's end serving. Most tea bags contain a plastic that allows them to be heat sealed. We didn't think this was any way to treat good tea. Every part of an EDEN tea bag reflects the highest care, from its oxygen washed manila fibers, to its crimped seal and 100 percent cotton string. No whiteners or plastics used. The flavor of tea reflects the soil it is grown in, the season picked, and the curing process. EDEN O