BEHIND THE CRAFT
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Celebrating Centuries of Japanese-British Relations

The British East India Company is making a historic return to Japan after 400 years, recreating a connection that dates back to 1623. Renowned for its role in fostering trade and diplomacy with Great Britain, The East India Company is collaborating with Japanese Pâtissier & Chocolatier, Kazuaki Eguchi.

Who is Kazuaki Eguchi?

Appointed as Chef Pâtissier for The East India Company, Kazuaki Eguchi brings his rich experience and innovative touch to our development team. Having trained with high-end chocolatiers in Japan and the distinguished Belgian chocolatier Del Rey, Eguchi-san joined Global Dining Co., Ltd. in 2010.

Over the years, he has headed both the pastry department and the signature premium chocolate range ""Decadence du Chocolat."" In 2013, he took the helm as Chef Pâtissier/Chocolatier at Patisserie Del’Immo, where he also serves as CEO. An award-winning author and a regular on Japanese television, Eguchi-san boasts a social media following of over 200,000 enthusiasts.

FGTE99166

Hanami Blend Round Caddy 100g

Net Weight: 100g

This blend offers nuanced flavours of dried watermelon, coconut, strawberries, and blueberries. Savour the delicate essence of spring with every sip.

The East India Company - Lifestyle

Tea

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£35.00
Lalith Lenadora, our teamaster's comments:

This blend in collaboration with Chocolatier Kazuaki Eguchi, was inspired by the beautifully fleeting Sakura (Cherry Blossom) Season which takes place throughout Japan for a few special weeks each spring. The word ‘Hanami’ literally means ‘flower viewing’, a time when friends and family gather in the parks to appreciate the Sakura’s beauty, celebrate spring, and each other ’s company. We hope this blend e vokes al l that is beautiful about both spring and Sakura - nuanced, delicate flavours, light colours, and a moment to mark the coming season and people in our lives.
This blend is perfect for both hot and iced tea. If sweetener preferred: add a touch of delicate unrefined sugar, agave or very light honey would allow for the fruit flavours to come through.
Experience the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms in every sip, where nuanced flavours of dried watermelon, coconut, strawberries, and blueberries dance on your palate. Celebrate the season and cherish moments with loved ones with this exquisite fusion.

If Straight:

Quantity

3~4g of tea

Temperature

200-250ML OF WATER AT 100ºC

Brewing Time

3-4 MINS BREWING TIME

Ingredients

Dried Watermelon pieces, Dried Coconut pieces, Dried Strawberries, Dried Blueberries

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place avoiding direct sunlight and strong odours.

Stories

Celebrating Centuries of Japanese-British Relations

The relationship between Japan and Britain, especially during the era of the East India Company's influence, marked a significant chapter in the history of both nations. The arrival of the first British ship, the Clove, in Japan in 1613, under the command of Captain John Saris, initiated a series of diplomatic, trading, scientific, and cultural exchanges that laid the foundation for future interactions between the two countries.

Upon the Clove's return to Britain in 1614, it marked a momentous occasion, symbolising the beginning of a relationship that would endure for centuries. The voyage not only established a direct link between Japan and Britain but also paved the way for further exploration and collaboration.

The East India Company played a crucial role in facilitating trade between Japan and Britain during this period. Established in 1600, the East India Company was granted a royal charter by Queen Elizabeth I, empowering it to trade in the East Indies, including Japan. The company's presence in Japan opened up new avenues for commerce, introducing Japanese goods such as silk, porcelain, and lacquerware to British markets, while also exporting British goods to Japan.

Today, the East India Company is committed to nurturing and furthering the longstanding relations between Japan and Britain. To this end, we are excited to collaborate with Eguchi-San, a distinguished figure in the culinary world. In 2013, he assumed the role of Chef Pâtissier/Chocolatier at Patisserie Del’Immo, where his talents extend to his leadership as CEO. With a strong presence and a dedicated social media following of over 200,000, Eguchi-San brings the 'critical ingredient' to our partnership.

We eagerly anticipate the opportunities that lie ahead as we embark on this collaboration with Eguchi-San, bridging cultures and flavours to create remarkable connections that honour our shared history and pave the way for a prosperous future.

Our spirit delivers no ordinary products

  • FAQ

    Does this tea contain caffeine and is there more or less than in coffee?
    Yes, all tea like coffee, contains caffeine. The amount in both teas and coffees does vary, depending on the type, but typically Sri Lankan black tea is lighter than other teas in caffeine content, usually between 50 and 90mg for a normally brewed 230ml serving. This compares to about 95mg for a normal cup of coffee. The best advice is to treat tea and coffee similarly if you need to manage your caffeine intake.

    I’ve heard that tea contains theanine. What is it and what does it do?
    Tea does indeed contain theanine, which is an amino acid [the building blocks of proteins]. Tea is one of only a few sources of theanine. It represents about 1% of dry weight and is at its highest concentrate in shade-grown teas like matcha and gyokuro. Whilst not yet proven in scientific studies that would permit specific health claims to be made, it is believed by many to be able to reduce mental and physical stress, promote relaxation and a sense of well-being. But not only that, it is more recently being thought to aid cognitive function. It’s one explanation for tea’s famous ability to create calm in a crisis [the Great British solution to all problems – ‘putting the kettle on’] and to stimulate when a little boost is required.

  • Delivery & Returns

    UK Standard Delivery: £3.95
    UK Next Day Delivery (mainland UK only): £9.95 (Order before 12pm)
    International Delivery is available, please see our delivery page for details. For more information and Terms & Conditions, please see our Delivery page.

  • Reviews

Hanami Blend Round Caddy 100g

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