Tasting Profile
Nose. IBUKI describes a fruity, muscat-like aroma. In June 2025 it also described a cool, jasmine-like aroma.[1],[2],[3]
Palate. According to IBUKI, the fruity aroma fills the mouth with a clean, smooth umami flavour and a refreshing astringency. The company describes a subtle, naturally derived sweetness and a taste free of off-flavours. It also describes a subtle, penetrating, nourishing flavour characteristic of Japanese tea.[1],[2],[3]
Structure. Structural points stated by IBUKI:[2]
- Sweetness: a hint of subtle, naturally derived sweetness
- Astringency: refreshing astringency
Pairings
IBUKI pairs SEISOU with meat dishes and smoked foods, stating that it enhances their rich flavour and aroma. It also names Chinese, Italian and Japanese cuisine as complements.[2]
Composition & Vinification
Oolong Tea -- Cultivar and Origin. The SEISOU product specification lists oolong tea of the variety Seisō, from Shizuoka City in Shizuoka Prefecture, from the 2026 harvest. IBUKI's homepage gives a different cultivar name. It describes SEISOU as made with "Koju," an original tea variety born in Motoyama, Shizuoka City.[2],[3]
Fermentation Methodology
Withering. The tea leaves used in SEISOU undergo withering. According to IBUKI, this withering promotes slight fermentation driven by the leaves' internal enzyme activity. IBUKI considers this step key to developing the tea's aroma.[2]
Provenance & Sourcing
Specifications. Key specifications for SEISOU:[5]
- Classification: oolong bottled tea
- Release: summer limited product
Production. IBUKI is located in Shimada City, Shizuoka Prefecture. The company states that it produces all of its bottled tea in its own FSSC22000-certified factory.
Ingredients Policy. IBUKI states that its bottled teas are made without additives, using only water and tea leaves.
Production Philosophy
SEISOU is an oolong bottled tea from IBUKI, made by a semi-fermented tea process that the company describes as distinctive to tea produced in Japan. In June 2025, IBUKI described SEISOU as a rare Japanese-produced oolong tea bottled beverage.[1]
Service
Temperature. For its bottled teas generally, IBUKI recommends serving them cold, then warming the glass slightly in the hand to release aroma.
Shelf Life. SEISOU has a shelf life of within six months. It must be stored refrigerated upon arrival.[4]