IRORI いろり

Evening Note
KOKUYO explores the deeper side of matcha
through a distinctive meeting of cacao, chestnut,
delicate florals, and rich umami.

Chocolatey in character yet unmistakably green,
it brings together flavors that feel both familiar
and unexpected. The warmth of cacao and
chestnut lends depth, while floral notes introduce
a softer dimension to the cup.

Named Evening Note, KOKUYO takes inspiration
from the quieter hours of the day — a time when
familiar things take on a different character,
and the smallest details become worth noticing.

An expression of matcha shaped by contrast,
depth, and quiet indulgence.

SINGLE-CULTIVAR
Okumidori

TASTE PROFILE
Primary Taste
Cacao · Chestnut · Floral · Rich umami

Secondary Taste
Milk chocolate · Roasted nuts · Soft florals

THE FEELING

KOKUYO takes its inspiration from the quiet grandeur of Mount Fuji, where dark mountain ranges meet delicate cherry blossoms beneath a pink sky. The landscape holds a striking contrast: monumental yet serene, dramatic yet still. There is a sense of perspective in its presence, a reminder of how something can feel powerful without demanding attention.

This idea carries into KOKUYO's expression of matcha. Its rich cacao character, warm chestnut notes, delicate florals, and deep umami create a profile with both depth and refinement. Rather than leaning toward bright, fresh, or grassy notes, KOKUYO offers a richer and more rounded experience, one that invites you to take your time and appreciate the complexity of the tea.

The artwork and the matcha share this same character. The mountains give the composition its depth; the blossoms bring softness. In the cup, richness is balanced by floral nuance, while umami keeps the experience unmistakably rooted in matcha. KOKUYO is an exploration of contrasts, brought together in a composition that feels considered, distinctive, and complete.

Sweetness     ●●●○○
Umami         ●●●●○
Body          ●●●●○
Freshness     ●●○○○
Bitterness    ●●○○○
Finish        ●●●●○

Single-Cultivar

Okumidori

Taste Profile

Cacao  • Chestnut  • Floral • Rich Umami


Classification
• Character — Rich
• Intensity — Full
• Texture — Smooth
• Astringency — Low
• Finish — Lasting

Best Pairings
• Dark chocolate
• Butter cookies
• Croissants
• Banana bread
• Cheesecake
• Chiffon cake
• Roasted chestnuts
• Salted crackers

Kagoshima, Japan

KOKUYO originates from Kagoshima, Japan, a region known for its distinctive tea-growing landscapes and diverse agricultural conditions. Located in the southern part of Kyushu, Kagoshima benefits from a warm climate, fertile volcanic soils, and a landscape shaped by its surrounding mountains and volcanic terrain.

These natural conditions contribute to the region's distinctive tea character. Japanese matcha is made from shade-grown tea leaves that are processed into tencha before being finely milled into powder. The resulting tea preserves the character of the leaf in a concentrated form, allowing its flavor, aroma, and texture to be experienced in every bowl.

KOKUYO presents a richer expression of Japanese matcha, with notes of cacao, chestnut, delicate florals, and deep umami. Its profile offers a different perspective on the tea, bringing together depth and aromatic complexity while remaining rooted in the traditions of Japanese tea.

Usucha 薄茶
• 2g matcha 
• 40-50ml water ~60°C

Latte 拿铁
• 4-5g matcha
• 40 ml water 75-80 °C
• 120 ml milk
• Whisk well and enjoy.

soundscape
KOKUYO - Evening Note

KOKUYO - Evening Note

A listening companion for tea, silence, and unhurried moments.
Listen Now
  • 01

    Andata

    2:53
  • 02

    Near Light

    3:28
  • 03

    Glass

    4:30
  • 04

    We Move Lightly

    3:10
  • 05

    On the Nature of Daylight

    6:11
  • 06

    Steep Hills of Vicodin Tears

    4:26
  • 07

    Threnody

    4:41
  • 08

    Looped

    6:00
  • 09

    Ambre

    3:47
  • 10

    Energy Flow

    4:32