Nippon Green 100 g Review: A Japanese-Inspired Green Tea from Nordqvist

Green tea lovers are always on the lookout for a new favorite. Nordqvist Tea, the Scandinavian tea house known for its high-quality blends, offers a Japanese-inspired green tea called Nippon Green. Available in a 100 g loose-leaf pouch, this tea promises a taste of Japan with a Nordic touch. In this review, we will explore its appearance, aroma, flavor, and brewing recommendations to help you decide if it deserves a spot in your tea collection.

Nippon Green is part of Nordqvist's loose-leaf range, which includes popular options like China Green 100 g and Green Tea Box 50g. But what sets Nippon Green apart? Let's dive in.

First Impressions: Packaging and Leaf Quality

The Nippon Green 100 g comes in Nordqvist's signature resealable pouch, which keeps the leaves fresh. Upon opening, you are greeted with vibrant, dark green leaves that are slightly twisted – typical of Japanese-style steamed green teas. The leaves are mostly whole with some smaller pieces, indicating good quality for a daily drinking tea. The aroma is fresh and grassy with a hint of seaweed, reminiscent of a classic Japanese sencha.

Compared to other Nordqvist green teas like China Green 100 g, which has a more pan-fired, nutty scent, Nippon Green is distinctly vegetal and oceanic. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the umami-rich profile of Japanese greens.

• Packaging: Resealable pouch, 100 g net weight
• Leaf appearance: Dark green, twisted, mostly whole leaves
• Aroma: Fresh grass, steamed vegetables, light seaweed

Tasting Notes: Flavor and Mouthfeel

Brewed according to the recommended parameters (70°C water, 2-3 minutes), Nippon Green produces a pale yellow-green liquor. The first sip reveals a smooth, savory umami flavor with subtle sweetness. There is a gentle astringency that lingers on the sides of the tongue, typical of quality green teas. The finish is clean and slightly buttery, making it very drinkable without being bitter.

As the tea cools, the sweetness becomes more pronounced, and a light floral note emerges. This complexity is impressive for a tea at this price point. If you prefer a milder cup, you can reduce steeping time to 1.5 minutes. For a bolder flavor, try using slightly more leaf. Nippon Green also stands up well to multiple infusions – the second steep at a slightly higher temperature (75°C) brings out more grassy notes.

• Brewing suggestion: 70°C, 2-3 minutes, 2-3 g per cup
• Flavor profile: Umami, sweet, grassy, with light astringency
• Multiple infusions: Yes, up to 3 steeps

How Does Nippon Green Compare to Other Nordqvist Green Teas?

Nordqvist offers several green teas, each with a unique character. China Green 100 g is a classic Chinese-style green tea with a roasted, nutty flavor, while Green Tea Box 50g is a convenient bagged option. Nippon Green stands out as the only Japanese-inspired loose-leaf green tea in their lineup. Its steamed processing gives it a distinctly different taste – more vegetal and umami-rich compared to the pan-fired Chinese greens.

If you are a fan of Japanese greens like sencha or gyokuro, Nippon Green will feel familiar. For those new to green tea, its smoothness makes it a great introduction. The 100 g size is economical for daily drinking, and the resealable pouch ensures freshness.

• Nippon Green: Steamed, umami, grassy, oceanic
• China Green: Pan-fired, nutty, toasty, slightly sweet
• Green Tea Box: Convenient bags, milder flavor

Brewing Tips for the Perfect Cup

To get the most out of Nippon Green, pay attention to water temperature and steeping time. Boiling water will scorch the leaves and create bitterness. Use water around 70°C (160°F) – about 2 minutes after boiling. Steep for 2-3 minutes for the first infusion. For subsequent infusions, increase the temperature by 5°C and steep for 30 seconds less.

Use about 2-3 grams of leaf per 200 ml cup. If you don't have a scale, a heaping teaspoon works. Pre-warm your teapot or cup to maintain temperature. This tea is best enjoyed plain, without milk or sweetener, to appreciate its natural complexity.

• Water temperature: 70°C (160°F)
• Steeping time: 2-3 minutes (first steep)
• Leaf amount: 2-3 g per cup
• Multiple steeps: Yes, adjust time and temperature

Nippon Green 100 g is a delightful Japanese-inspired green tea that brings a taste of umami to your cup. Its smooth flavor, fresh aroma, and forgiving brewing make it suitable for both beginners and seasoned tea drinkers. If you're looking to expand your green tea horizons, give Nippon Green a try – it pairs beautifully with a quiet afternoon or a light meal. Explore more green teas from Nordqvist, such as China Green 100 g, to discover your perfect cup.