Mumyoi Joaka by Tozo Watanabe
Among the raw materials of Sado Mumyoi there is a special clay called "Joaka". It was recovered from the tunnels of the Aikawa gold mine, and its reputation among potters is close to legendary. This series is teaware made from 100% Joaka.
Seeping through the walls of the mine filtered it naturally, so the particles are extremely fine and the clay can be thrown on the wheel on its own. Being fine makes it porous, which increases its effect on taste. The finish is long and the body is not especially strong. What sets this clay apart is that the flavor comes across as bright, so it goes well with every kind of tea, and fermented teas such as black tea, oolong and white tea taste especially good in it.
Digging around Aikawa has been prohibited in the run-up to the gold mine's World Heritage listing, so there is almost no prospect of more Joaka coming out of the tunnels.
To learn how a teapot changes the taste of tea and what to look for when choosing one, see "How to choose a teapot and tea cup".
Mumyoi Joaka by Tozo Watanabe
