A private blend for Iris Coffee Lab in Raleigh, NC. This matcha was crafted in private collaboration with Marusan Koroen, a historic tea producer and blender based in Uji with roots dating back to 1895. For Iris, we requested first-harvest saemidori and okumidori matcha, sourced from their partner farms across the Uji region. This collective practices traditional tencha shading and harvesting practices while Marusan Koroen processes and blends. Known and trusted for its organic cultivation qualifications and adherence to tradition, Marusan Koroen only collaborates with purveyors who approach matcha with the same care.

This matcha is creamy and nutty, reminiscent of cashew, with a clear umami presence; evoking cooked zucchini and a soft aroma of rose petal.  It pairs beautifully with milk and, like many beverages at Iris, carries quiet floral undertones that unfold slowly rather than announce themselves. It has become a joy to watch this matcha take root at 725 Tucker Street and be embraced by the Raleigh community.