For centuries, the Japanese have enjoyed green tea, or sencha tea as it is commonly referred to, for its nutritional benefits and flavoursome taste.

Garnered from the same camellia sinensis plant as black tea, green tea is harvested at a younger age and foregoes traditional roasting methods in order to retain more of its nutrients and antioxidants.

Containing high levels of polyphenols, catechins and various other types of flavonoids, green sencha tea is celebrated for its ability to reduce the formation of free radicals in the body, maintaining cellular integrity and strengthening the body’s natural immune system.

In fact, many studies have shown that green tea may help combat seasonal allergies, improve eye and oral health, reverse the signs of ageing, increase mental and physical endurance, assist with weight loss, and dramatically reduce the risk of cancer-causing cells.

Since the development of green tea production in Victoria in 1994 there are five growers, of which one is certified organic.  Harvested in Victoria’s high country and processed in Australia’s only green tea processing plant in Wangaratta, Yarra Valley Tea Co. is the largest buyer of locally grown organic green tea in Australia.

It is used exclusively for their unique green tea blends, Uncle Vic and Aunt Myrtle.

Packed full of antioxidants and restorative properties, Uncle Vic pays homage to the traditional Japanese sencha tea with its vibrant green hue, cleansing aromatic taste and sweet tongue glosses.

Offering an Aussie twist on this Japanese favourite, Aunt Myrtle incorporates Queensland’s native lemon myrtle to provide a rejuvenating experience that improves the body’s natural detoxification and relaxation abilities.

Available in both loose leaf and biodegradable pyramid bags, Yarra Valley Tea Co. hand blends each creation in Victoria’s Yarra Valley region and supplies to quality independent grocers, health food stores, gourmet providores, speciality retailers and online. Find out how to grab yourself a cuppa here.