The Warmth Within: Choosing Your Tea by Temperature This February
Hello everyone, this is Keko from the online staff.
February is the month when we feel the winter chill most deeply. From the frosty mornings to the biting evening air, it’s the season where we naturally find ourselves asking, "Which tea should I have today?"
This month, I’d like to suggest a different way to choose your tea: not by the type of leaf, but by the temperature.
We would love to suggest ways to enjoy it.
Tea is a drink that changes its expression with heat
One of the most fascinating aspects of Japanese tea is how the same leaves can yield completely different profiles of aroma, sweetness, and astringency depending on the water temperature. In February, when the gap between the outdoor chill and your body temperature is wide, the warmth of the cup becomes a direct source of comfort.
Choosing your tea based on the current temperature or your physical condition is a deeply mindful—and practical—way to enjoy your daily brew.
For Chilly Mornings: A Steaming, Robust Cup
When you need to wake up from a cold body, I recommend tea brewed at a higher temperature. Kuki Hojicha (Roasted Stem Tea) brewed with boiling water releases an immediate, toasted aroma. As the steam rises, the scent acts as a gentle signal to your brain that the day has begun, warming you all the way to your core.
For Midday: A Mellow, Calming Warmth
When spending time indoors during the day, a slightly lower temperature often feels more soothing. Try brewing Nakamura-cha (our signature blend) at around 60–70°C (140–160°F). At this temperature, the umami and fragrance unfold gently, creating a balanced flavor that doesn't overwhelm the palate. It is a "quiet temperature," perfect for accompanying work or a good book.
For the Evening: Low Heat, Low Stimulation
To wrap up your day, look for something with minimal stimulation for both the body and mind. Kyobancha (Smoky Roasted Tea) is ideal here. By letting the water cool slightly before brewing, the smoky sweetness becomes milder and softer. It’s a peaceful way to prepare your senses for sleep.
February: Listening to what your body needs
In the heart of winter, our bodies often carry hidden tension from the cold. "Today, I need it piping hot." "Today, a lukewarm cup feels more right."
Being honest with these small physical cues is a wonderful way to enjoy tea. This month, let tea be a way to have a "conversation" with your own well-being.
Small changes, big rewards
You don’t need special equipment or complex knowledge to start. Use a cooling vessel (yuzamashi), wait an extra minute, and take your first sip slowly. These tiny shifts in temperature make the tea ritual so much richer.
This February, instead of just picking a flavor, try asking yourself: "At what temperature do I want my tea today?"