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[[File:Yabukita-close.webp|thumb|right|Yabukita leaves]]

'''Samidori''' (さみどり) is an unregistered Japanese tea [[cultivar]] originating from the Uji region in Kyoto Prefecture. Renowned for its suitability in producing high-quality shaded teas such as [[Gyokuro]], [[Tencha]], and [[Matcha]], Samidori is celebrated for its rich umami flavor and appealing aroma.

== Background ==

Samidori is often associated with premium Japanese teas due to its exceptional characteristics when grown under shade. It is important not to confuse Samidori with [[Saemidori]], another Japanese tea cultivar with a similar name but different properties. While Saemidori is known for its early budding and sweetness, Samidori is distinct in its flavor profile and cultivation methods.

== History ==

The cultivar was developed by Koyama Masajirō (小山 政次郎) beginning in 1939. Originating from native tea plants in the Uji region, an area with a rich history in tea cultivation, Samidori was promoted for use among tea growers in 1954 due to its desirable traits for producing high-grade teas. Its adoption contributed to the region's reputation for exceptional [[Matcha]] and [[Gyokuro]].

== Characteristics ==
=== Growth and Harvest ===

* Budding Time: Samidori is a standard budding cultivar, with a harvest time similar to the widely cultivated Yabukita variety. This synchronization allows for efficient harvesting schedules.
* Cold Resistance: The cultivar exhibits good tolerance to colder climates, making it a reliable choice for regions that experience lower temperatures.
* Extended Picking Period: Samidori offers a longer harvesting window, reducing labor intensity for large tea plantations and allowing for more flexible picking times.

=== Tea Production Qualities ===
* Shaded Tea Suitability: Exceptionally well-suited for shaded cultivation methods like the Tana technique, which enhances the development of amino acids in the leaves.
* Flavor Profile: Produces teas with a vibrant green color, rich umami taste, natural sweetness, and minimal bitterness.
* Aroma: Known for its pleasant aroma with subtle notes that can include hints of rosemary and avocado when processed into matcha.

=== Cultivation and Processing of Samidori ===

Samidori plants thrive under traditional shading methods used in the production of high-quality Japanese teas:

* Shading: Tea bushes are shaded for about three weeks before harvest to increase chlorophyll and amino acid content.
* Harvesting: Leaves are carefully picked to preserve their quality.
* Processing: The leaves are steamed and dried to produce tencha, which is then finely ground using stone mills to create matcha powder.
* Packaging: The finished matcha is packaged in oxygen-free environments and stored under refrigeration to maintain freshness until consumption.

== Usage of Samidori ==

Samidori is predominantly used in the production of:

* Matcha: Highly prized for ceremonial-grade matcha due to its smooth texture and rich flavor.
* Gyokuro: Ideal for this premium shaded green tea, offering depth in taste and aroma.
* Tencha: Serves as the raw material for matcha, benefiting from the cultivar's exceptional qualities.

== Current Status of Samidori ==
Today, Samidori remains a prominent cultivar in Kyoto Prefecture, especially in the Uji region. It continues to be a preferred choice for tea farmers aiming to produce top-tier [[Matcha]] and [[Gyokuro]]. Its cultivation supports the preservation of traditional Japanese tea-making practices and contributes to the global appreciation of Japanese tea culture.

== See Also ==

* [[Cultivar]]
* [[Matcha]]
* [[Gyokuro]]
* [[Yabukita]]
* [[Tsuyuhikari]]
* [[Okumidori]]
* [[Saemidori]]

== Buy Samidori Matcha ==

* [https://teamania.ch/samidori-matcha/ Samidori Matcha]

== References ==

* Tanaka, H. (2012). The Cultivation of Tea in Uji: A Historical Perspective. Kyoto University Press.
* Sato, M. (2015). "Characteristics of Japanese Tea Cultivars". Journal of Tea Science, 42(3), 150-158.
* Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. (2020). Catalogue of Tea Cultivars.

[[Category:Cultivar]]
[[Category:Japanese tea]]
[[Category:Green tea]]

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