Great heat
July 23rd marks the arrival of Taisho (Great Heat),
the solar term that heralds the most intense heat of the year.
Beneath the relentless summer sun and the shimmering haze rising from the earth, the season reaches its fullest expression.
For this micro-season, we present our Taisho Blend. At its heart is Minamisayaka, a delicately crafted oolong tea from Miyazaki Prefecture, paired with sweet summer corn at its peak and fragrant hops.
The first impression evokes the irresistible aroma of freshly grilled corn, recalling the warmth of bustling summer festival stalls. Layers of toasted grain and the gentle depth of oak gradually unfold beneath it, creating a rich yet refined aromatic profile. The corn's natural sweetness melts seamlessly into the mellow, rounded character of the oolong, leaving behind a comforting finish reminiscent of monaka wafers and creamy corn potage. Finally, a delicate lift of hops lingers on the palate, bringing a crisp freshness that gently lightens the richness of the blend.
Taisho also welcomes the season of Doyō, a traditional period marking the transition between seasons. For centuries, it has been regarded as a time to restore both body and spirit in preparation for the months ahead.
While many associate Doyō no Ushi no Hi (the Day of the Ox during Doyō) with eating grilled eel, the ancient Chinese philosophy of Yin and Yang and the Five Elements also regards this period as an ideal time to replenish the body's Earth element through golden-hued foods and naturally sweet ingredients.
Corn, harvested at the very height of summer, is one such gift of the season. Its golden kernels ripening beneath open skies, the irresistible aroma drifting from charcoal grills at festival stalls—these are scents that instantly awaken memories of a Japanese summer.
To accompany this unmistakable fragrance, we selected Minamisayaka, an oolong celebrated for its gentle umami and soft, rounded elegance, creating a blend that captures the very spirit of midsummer.
Whether accompanying a table gathered around grilled eel during Doyō, or simply offering a quiet moment of respite afterward, we invite you to savor this seasonal cup and embrace the graceful rhythm of summer while it lasts.
