New Arrival of Akitsu Mumyoi and Nosaka Rough Clay Teapot

A wide selection of teaware by Tozo Watanabe, a Sado-based artist of Mumyoi-yaki, has just arrived. This time, we especially received a large number of teapots made with Akitsu Mumyoi Oxidation-fired and Nosaka Carbonized Reduction-fired clay.

Akitsu Mumyoi

Akitsu Mumyoi Oxidation-fired clay enhances both body and aftertaste equally. As a result, the taste of the tea is rounded, while also delivering a solid finish in the back of the throat. It also brings out flavor very well. It works very well for oolong and black tea. This clay is highly versatile and can be used for nearly all types of tea. When the same clay is fired using the Carbonized Reduction method, the body (boldness) is reduced, while the aftertaste becomes more prominent, resulting in a finer impression in taste. Therefore, Akitsu Mumyoi Carbonized Reduction-fired clay gives a softer flavor when used for fermented teas.

Nosaka Rough Clay

Nosaka is a place name in Sawane, Sado City, located relatively close to the Aikawa Gold Mine. Nosaka clay has a yellowish tone and is visually and texturally quite similar to Zhuni from Yixing. This clay strongly enhances body. In other words, "body" refers to a sense of boldness, width, and structure in the taste. For example, when Ali Shan tea is brewed using Nosaka Oxidation-fired clay, it exhibits a taste and flavor similar to Dong Ding Oolong. Dong Ding Oolong is known for its full-bodied profile, possibly due to the abundance of alkali metals in its native soil. With this clay, nearly any oolong tea will develop a robust, expansive profile, similar to Wuyi rock tea. In contrast, Carbonized Reduction firing produces a lesser body, while delivering significantly stronger aftertaste compared to oxidation firing. Although Carbonized Reduction generally reduces body and enhances aftertaste in most clay types, Nosaka clay inherently possesses strong body. As a result, even after Carbonized Reduction firing, the tea still offers substantial breadth compared to Akitsu Mumyoi. Rather than emphasizing a vibrant flavor, this clay is recommended for those who wish to enjoy a gentle flavor and lingering finish.