Spring is Near, But Let’s Cherish the Last of Winter's Tea
Hello everyone, this is Keko from the online staff 😊
Lately, I’ve begun to feel the first whispers of spring in the seasonal sweets lining shop windows and the changing attire of people on the street. March is a "between" season—some days are bathed in soft, warm sunlight, while others pull us back into a sudden winter chill.
We find ourselves caught between the excitement of waiting for spring and the cozy warmth of winter we aren't quite ready to let go of. That is why, right now, I feel a desire to truly cherish the last of our winter tea.
Seasons Do Not Change Overnight
In the world of Japanese tea, we rarely mark the seasons with a sharp line. We don't simply decide, "Spring starts today."
On a lingering cold morning, we reach for a cup of Hojicha to warm us to the core. On a milder afternoon, we might choose a mellow, calming Sencha. We select our tea based on the temperature, the humidity, and the state of our own hearts. To us, seasons move like a gradient—a slow, beautiful blur. Savoring that "in-between" time is one of the true joys of Japanese tea.
Savoring "Nagori": The Beauty of the Lingering
There is a special kind of deliciousness in drinking autumn and winter teas as spring approaches. We call this appreciation of the departing season Nagori.
After months of resting, the tea's flavor has matured; the sharp edges have softened, leaving a rounded, deep aroma. That warmth on the palate and the quiet Yoin (afterglow) after the last sip isn't just about something ending. It is a flavor that connects us to the next season. Cherishing the Nagori of winter is, perhaps, the best way to prepare our hearts to fully welcome the spring.
There is No Need to Rush
March is often a whirlwind of new beginnings—moving, graduations, and saying goodbye. Our minds tend to race forward.
But you don’t have to force a sudden shift. You don’t have to rush into spring. On a cold night, take out your favorite Kyusu (teapot), brew a warm cup of tea, and simply take a breath. That quiet moment will naturally realign your feelings and gently nudge you toward the next season when the time is right.
Before Spring Truly Arrives
Spring is just around the corner. But for now, let’s value our winter tea until the very last leaf. Savoring the Nagori while slowly preparing for the blossoms—that, too, is a special moment that can only be experienced right now.
