Shichimei no Mukashi by Horii Shichimeien is a refined, premium ceremonial matcha that delivers delicate sweetness and smooth, lingering umami—a sophisticated blend crafted for discerning matcha enthusiasts seeking quiet depth and harmonious elegance. This exceptional matcha opens with a soft, creamy mouthfeel and gentle floral aroma, followed by a round, mellow flavor carrying subtle notes of steamed chestnut, fresh butter, and a whisper of nori, free from any bitterness or astringency.

Named after the historic Uji Shichimeien (Seven Famous Tea Gardens of Uji), designated by the Ashikaga Shogunate during the Muromachi period over 600 years ago, this matcha honors the significance of "Shichimei" for Uji and its people. The traditional suffix "Mukashi" (昔) in the name denotes a higher-grade matcha—historically derived from the Chinese characters for "twenty" (廿) and "day" (日), referencing March 20th of the lunar calendar when the very best tea was picked.

Founded in 1879, Horii Shichimeien is among the few Uji tea companies that own their own tea garden—the historic Okunoyama tea garden, the sole survivor of the legendary Seven Famous Gardens. Crafted from hand-picked tea leaves and stone-ground with precision, Shichimei no Mukashi offers a calm, elegant, and profoundly satisfying experience that reflects centuries of tea-making mastery.

About this matcha:

• Refined & Elegant: Soft, creamy texture with delicate sweetness and smooth umami—no bitterness or astringency, just clean, harmonious depth.
• Complex Subtlety: Gentle floral aroma with notes of steamed chestnut, fresh butter, and a whisper of nori—layers of quiet sophistication unfold gracefully.
• Versatile Premium: Ideal for both usucha (thin tea) and koicha (thick tea)—its refined character shines equally in light or concentrated preparations.
• Invigorating Effect: Awakening yet soothing—reviewers describe feeling "the power of life" from this matcha, smooth energy that flows naturally.
• Hand-Picked Excellence: Crafted from carefully selected, hand-picked tea leaves for superior quality and refined sweetness.
• Historic Namesake: Named after the legendary Uji Shichimeien, honoring over 600 years of tea heritage and the seven gardens that shaped Uji tea culture.
• Complete Control: One of few tea merchants in Uji that owns their own tea garden, ensuring quality from leaf to cup.
• 100% Uji Origin: Shade-grown, stone-ground, and processed in Uji, Kyoto—the birthplace of Japan's finest matcha.