A new tea product designed specifically for mixing with shochu and other spirits is launching on May 15. Called "Tea for Uji-wari Created by the Nondebee Tea Master" (のんべえ茶師が考えた宇治割りのためのお茶), it comes from Yamashiro Busan, an Osaka-based Japanese tea company with 66 years of history.
A Growing Trend and a Gap in Quality
Green tea highballs — known in Japan as "ryokucha hai" — have become one of the most popular ways to drink alcohol in the country. According to a survey by Sanwa Shuruishu, approximately two out of three people who drink alcohol have tried one. Following the rise of highballs and lemon sours, the green tea highball category has seen major beverage companies release canned products in quick succession.
Despite the trend's momentum, many restaurants and bars continue to use bottled tea or concentrated liquid for mixing, which often lacks the original aroma and richness found in quality brewed tea. The new product aims to fill that gap — not tea consumed as a mixer, but tea that makes the drink worth savoring on its own.
Developed by a Master Tea Appraiser
The product was developed by Makoto Yamaguchi, a certified Tea Appraisal Technique Level 6 professional — one of the highest qualifications recognized at Japan's national tea appraisal competition. Known by the nickname "Nondebee Chashi" (the heavy-drinking tea master), Yamaguchi is both a seasoned expert in evaluating tea quality and a self-confessed lover of alcohol. He approached the challenge of preserving tea's natural aroma and sweetness in an alcoholic drink by reportedly drinking extensively to fine-tune the result.
The concept of "Uji-wari" refers to a green tea highball made using Uji matcha-blended tea. The term is used both as a product name and as a broader name for this particular drinking style.
Product Features
Uji Matcha Blend for Depth and Color
The defining characteristic of this product is the inclusion of Uji matcha in the blend. The matcha contributes a smooth, rich body and a vibrant green color that remains visually striking even when mixed with alcohol. The result is described as a noticeably different drinking experience compared to highballs made with bottled tea.
Made for Multiple Servings
One tea bag yields 3 to 4 servings of green tea highball. The blend is designed so that even as additional shochu is added, the tea flavor continues to come through without fading.
Suited for Food Pairing
With aroma, umami, and finish calibrated around compatibility with shochu, the tea pairs well with a wide range of dishes — from traditional Japanese cuisine to grilled meat and savory fried foods such as yakiniku and takoyaki.
Cold Brew, Ready Quickly
The tea bag is used with cold water. After a brief stir, it produces a bright green color and a full aroma in a short amount of time.
Also Popular with International Visitors
Restaurants that have already been using earlier products in the Nondebee Chashi series — including the Green Tea Hai Tea and Brown Rice Tea Hai Tea — have reported positive feedback from international visitors who enjoy experiencing Japanese tea culture combined with a local alcoholic drink.
Tea Master Profile
Makoto Yamaguchi / Nickname: "Yama-chan"
Tea master at Yamashiro Busan, certified Tea Appraisal Technique Level 6 (certified by Japan's national tea appraisal competition). Combining his expertise as a professional tea evaluator with his passion for drinking, Yamaguchi developed the Nondebee Chashi series.
"It would be a shame not to use Uji tea when we're right here in the Kansai region. That's why I made this. This is a glass split with Uji."
The Nondebee Chashi Series
The Nondebee Chashi series currently includes three products: Green Tea Hai Tea, Brown Rice Tea Hai Tea, and the new Uji-wari Tea. The new Uji-wari product is positioned as an upgrade to the existing lineup, featuring higher-grade ingredients and a more complex flavor profile.
Product Details
- Product Name: Tea for Uji-wari Created by the Nondebee Tea Master
- Contents: 75g (5g × 15 bags)
- Ingredients: Green tea (domestic), matcha (domestic), mulberry leaf (domestic)
- Best Before: One year from the date of manufacture
- Price: ¥800 (tax excluded)
- Release Date: May 15, 2026
- Available From: ocha-yamashiro.com, Amazon
