The tea stocks had been non-existant for several days. Even the
flavourless green tea bag was considered in the last few days. Things
were looking grim. Fortunately, relief came today, inside a US post
priority mail box from Chado Traditional Japanese Tea Store (link:
http://www.chadoteahouse.com/).
Chado Tea exclusively stock a large variety of Japanese teas from a number of locations, done in a number of styles. They aim to provide "only truly tasty Japanese teas from reputable estates", superior to that found in stores. From a preliminary tasting of one of their senchas, I'd say that their mission statement is accurate.
They stock a wider range of tea types than other exclusive Japanese tea retailers, and offer a variety of price points (ranging from about US$13 for their basic senchas, to $43 for their best gyokuro, and well beyond for some of the premium matchas). For my review, I ordered a premium sencha, a guricha and a gold-prize winning sencha (lucky me!).
The website is easy to navigate and the purchasing process was simple, although it was recommended that I contact Chado to confirm shipping costs due to my Australian location. So I emailed for a quote on shipping beforehand, and received excellent customer service from Fumi Shimano, who was incredibly polite and helpful! I was guided through everything, and got reduced price (and faster) shipping plus a free sample of a very good tea as a bonus.
Chado Tea exclusively stock a large variety of Japanese teas from a number of locations, done in a number of styles. They aim to provide "only truly tasty Japanese teas from reputable estates", superior to that found in stores. From a preliminary tasting of one of their senchas, I'd say that their mission statement is accurate.
They stock a wider range of tea types than other exclusive Japanese tea retailers, and offer a variety of price points (ranging from about US$13 for their basic senchas, to $43 for their best gyokuro, and well beyond for some of the premium matchas). For my review, I ordered a premium sencha, a guricha and a gold-prize winning sencha (lucky me!).
The website is easy to navigate and the purchasing process was simple, although it was recommended that I contact Chado to confirm shipping costs due to my Australian location. So I emailed for a quote on shipping beforehand, and received excellent customer service from Fumi Shimano, who was incredibly polite and helpful! I was guided through everything, and got reduced price (and faster) shipping plus a free sample of a very good tea as a bonus.
Upon arrival, the tea came nicely wrapped with brewing instructions. In my opinion, the brewing instructions are an essential for any good internet retailer, because not everyone knows or is willing to research good tea brewing for each type, and it helps you get the most out of what you've bought. Oh, the packaging for the individual teas is fantastic.
So the overall experience was excellent, the extras were very appreciated, but the customer service provided by Fumi was definitely the highlight.
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