The way of tea – from the gardens of the world to us.
The journey begins
Every tea journey begins in a place. In landscapes that know time, and in hands that carry experience. UMAMI follows these paths with attention and respect.
The origin
Our teas come from selected cultivation areas in Japan, China, Taiwan, India, and other tea-growing regions.
We consciously work with small tea farmers and specialized manufacturers who are responsible for their own cultivation and processing.
We visit gardens on-site, talk with producers, and taste teas directly at the source.
Leaf quality, picking standard, harvest time, and processing are evaluated.
Only teas whose origin and production methods are traceable are considered by us.
Refinement – Knowledge & Time
After the harvest, processing determines character and depth.
Withering, oxidizing, roasting, steaming, or drying follow clear, often traditional procedures that require experience and time.
We prefer teas that are artisanally processed and whose character is not altered by industrial acceleration.
Only teas that are convincing in quality, expression, and origin find their way to UMAMI.
The Way
Tea has always been in motion. Historically via caravan routes, today via various paths and timeframes.
Early harvests like the First Flush were referred to early on as air-freighted tea – a term that stands for exceptional freshness and immediate proximity to the harvest.
At the same time, we are conscious of the impact of transport and, depending on the type of tea, its sensitivity and origin, choose the method that preserves quality while taking environmental aspects into account.
Because the journey also influences what eventually ends up in the cup.
Arrival at UMAMI
After arrival, the teas are tasted and carefully stored. Only then are they packaged and become part of our range.
What reaches us becomes part of our signature – curated, not collected.
Every tea carries responsibility – toward its origin and toward the moment in which it is enjoyed.
Back to the moment
The journey does not end with the purchase.
It continues in the infusion, the aroma, the first sip.
Each cup is a moment – shaped by origin, time, and attitude.
Where origin meets moment
UMAMI TEA Q&A
Where do you source your tea from?
We source our teas from selected tea farmers and producers in various countries of origin, including China, Japan, Taiwan, and Sri Lanka. Depending on the type and style of tea, we work with different partners. Our tea blends are created by combining teas from various producers and regions of origin. In our selection process, we prioritize quality, careful processing, and transparent cultivation conditions.
How do you choose your tea?
Our teas are selected based on quality, processing, and taste. We carefully sample every variety and choose only those teas that are convincing in their origin, consistency, and infusion. For us, selection means restraint. Instead of a broad assortment, we offer a consciously curated selection that aligns with our understanding of tea. p>
Does UMAMI also offer organic teas?
Yes. Wherever possible, we prioritize organic quality. At the same time, it is not possible to source organic tea in all regions of origin or for every variety of tea. The decisive factors for us are cultivation methods, processing, and quality. Even without formal certification, we select our teas carefully and work with producers who operate responsibly and transparently.
How do you ensure that your tea meets EU standards?
We work exclusively with certified tea farmers and reliable dealers who comply with applicable EU regulations. All our teas meet food safety requirements and are sourced from partners who ensure documentation, traceability, and quality controls. Before a tea becomes part of our range, we check its conformity with the relevant EU regulations regarding cultivation, processing, and import.
Why is not every tea available all year round?
Tea is a natural product and depends on harvest times, vintages, and quantities. Many teas are only available in limited quantities or are seasonal. We consciously choose not to permanently replace teas, but rather to adjust our range accordingly.
Why doesn't the same tea always taste the same?
Taste can vary slightly from harvest to harvest. Climate, weather conditions, harvest time, and processing influence the character of a tea. These differences are part of its natural diversity and an expression of its origin.
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