The difference between the different gyokuro names is in their taste and aroma. Each gyokuro in our selection is on a spectrum of character from light to rich. Lighter gyokuro teas like Mantoku have less body, less umami sweetness, and a shorter aftertaste. Richer gyokuro like Tenka-ichi have more full-bodied umami sweetness, a deeper aroma, and a long aftertaste. Unlike sencha, none of our gyokuro varieties have a sharp, pinching astringent flavor.
If you are new to Ippodo gyokuro, we recommend trying Kanro. If you try it and you think you would like a richer character, choose a higher ranked gyokuro next. If you try it and the flavor is too rich, try a lower ranked gyokuro next.