Mastering the Art: Techniques in Handpicking Matcha Leaves

Introduction

In the world of matcha tea, the quality of the leaves is everything. “Tezumi” (手摘み), the technique of hand-picking matcha leaves, is a tradition deeply rooted in age-old practices and plays a crucial role in determining the taste, color and quality of the final tea. This article takes you into the heart of this delicate art form, where every step and movement performed with "Tezumi" is of utmost importance for the quality of matcha.

History of Hand Picking

The technique of hand-picking matcha leaves dates back to the origins of matcha in Japan, centuries ago. In the early days, each tea plant was treated with care and attention, with farmers selecting the best leaves for matcha production. This method has been refined over the centuries, with generations of tea masters passing on their knowledge and skills. This tradition, which requires a lot of patience and precision, is still considered the gold standard in matcha tea culture today.

Importance of Timing and Selection​

Timing is crucial when hand picking matcha leaves, as also discussed in our earlier article about matcha harvest seasons The Art of Matcha Harvesting: A Seasonal Journey. The best time to harvest is in early spring when the leaves are young and full of nutrients. Tea masters carefully assess the leaves for their size, color and texture. Only the youngest and most vibrant leaves are chosen, as these contain the highest concentration of flavor and antioxidants. This selection process ensures that only the best leaves are used for matcha production, which is essential for the exceptional quality that characterizes matcha.

Techniques of Hand Picking​

Hand picking matcha leaves, 'Tezumi', is a careful and methodical procedure that requires a lot of precision and attention. Pickers must position their hands and fingers in a certain way to carefully separate the leaves and buds from the plant, without damaging the rest of the plant. This is usually done by holding the stem between the thumb and forefinger and gently squeezing and twisting, causing the leaves to loosen.

The goal is to pick only the youngest, most tender leaves, usually the top two to three leaves and the bud. These leaves contain most of the flavors and nutrients, essential for high-quality matcha. The pickers' trained hands can quickly identify and harvest these optimal leaves, with an emphasis on speed and accuracy. This technique requires years of practice to perfect and is often passed down from generation to generation within picker communities. 

Using this traditional picking method preserves the integrity of the tea plant for future harvests and ensures that the leaves are in the best possible condition when they move on to the next stages of matcha production. This delicate and thoughtful process reflects the deep respect Japan has for nature and the art of tea production.

Tea pickers hunched over rows of tea plants during harvest.

Challenges and Skills

Hand picking is a labor-intensive task that requires great skill and precision. It requires years of training and a deep appreciation for the tradition of matcha tea. Despite the rise of machine picking methods, hand picking remains the preferred method for premium matcha, due to the care and attention it provides to each individual tea plant.

Conclusion

The technique of hand-picking matcha leaves is more than just a harvesting method; it is a symbol of the dedication and respect for the art of matcha tea. This traditional approach ensures the superior quality of the tea, which is appreciated worldwide. As you enjoy a cup of matcha, remember that every sip tells a story of tradition, care and mastery.

- Niels -

This article is the latest addition to our informative series on 'How Matcha is Made'. In this series of articles we highlight every facet of the matcha production process. Previously we drew attention to the delicate process of shading matcha plants, an essential step that determines the distinctive properties of matcha. We also explored the deep historical and cultural roots of matcha in our article about the early use of matcha in East Asian rituals.

Our series offers an in-depth look at the traditional and modern methods of matcha production, from cultivation to processing. We encourage our readers to follow this fascinating journey through the world of matcha with us, and discover the complexity and beauty of this special tea.

Discover the superior quality of Matcha at Tea Shop Het Kleinste Huis!

Our carefully selected matcha comes straight from Japan, where traditional methods ensure a rich, authentic taste. As specialists in tea, we not only offer premium matcha, but also expert advice and a passion for tea culture. Choose The Smallest House for an unparalleled matcha experience, where quality and customer satisfaction come first. Taste the difference and make every cup of matcha a special moment.

Hi, I'm Niels and a passionate tea lover. Since 2014 I share my love for tea in my own shop, Het Kleinste Huis, and on my blog. Here I share my knowledge and experiences to inspire and inform others about the fascinating world of tea. Follow my blog and discover new flavors, teas and adventures with me.

Leave a comment

Related Posts