---
title: "Kettl: Direct Importer with Fukuoka and Brooklyn Bases"
description: "Kettl sources Japanese matcha directly from producers in Uji and Yame, with operations in Fukuoka and Brooklyn supporting freshness."
image: "https://best-matcha.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Kettl_Logo_PNG_Proxy_110x.webp"
---
# Kettl: Direct Importer with Fukuoka and Brooklyn Bases

> Kettl sources Japanese matcha directly from producers in Uji and Yame, with operations in Fukuoka and Brooklyn supporting freshness.

Source: https://best-matcha.com/shop/kettl
Created: 2025-09-16T00:38:46+00:00
Modified: 2026-08-05T13:43:03+00:00
Author: Emilie Schol

**Kettl** brings Japan’s most distinguished tea traditions directly to tea enthusiasts through a unique bridge between *authentic Japanese tea culture* and modern accessibility. Founded by Zach Mangan and his wife Minami in 2011, this Japanese tea company operates from both Fukuoka and Brooklyn, creating direct connections between Japan’s finest tea producers and a growing global audience.

### A Journey Rooted in Japanese Tea Heritage

The story of **Kettl** began with Zach Mangan’s solo journey through Japan in 2010, where he discovered that the freshest and most exceptional teas rarely left their regions of origin. This revelation sparked a mission to make these rare teas accessible beyond Japan’s borders. With offices strategically positioned in Fukuoka—one of Japan’s premier tea-growing regions—and New York City, Kettl maintains close relationships with distinguished tea producers while serving international markets.

### Direct Sourcing from Japan’s Premier Tea Regions

**Kettl’s approach to tea sourcing** sets them apart in the matcha marketplace. The company works directly with tea producers in regions like Uji near Kyoto and Yame in Fukuoka, areas renowned for producing the highest grades of *Japanese green tea and matcha*. Their expanded warehouses in both Brooklyn and Fukuoka allow them to maintain freshness while moving closer to vertical integration—a rarity in the tea industry.

This direct-sourcing model ensures that every tea reflects the authentic character of its origin. Kettl doesn’t just import tea; they cultivate relationships with producers who have perfected their craft over generations.

### Commitment to Quality and Education

Beyond offering premium **matcha and Japanese teas**, Kettl serves as an educator in tea culture. The company takes tea seriously, from proper brewing techniques to understanding the nuances that distinguish exceptional matcha from ordinary offerings. Their tea bar on the Bowery in New York demonstrates this dedication, creating spaces where customers can experience Japanese tea traditions firsthand.

Kettl has earned recognition from specialty retailers like Joe Coffee Company, who specifically sought a tea partner sharing their commitment to *high sourcing standards*. This reputation reflects years of building trust through transparency, quality, and genuine expertise in Japanese tea. For matcha enthusiasts seeking authentic, directly-sourced teas with traceable origins, **Kettl** represents a bridge to Japan’s finest tea culture without compromise.

---

## Site identity

- Organization: Best Matcha (Emilie Schol)
- Description: Best Matcha is a specialized marketplace and educational platform for comparing Japanese matcha brands, products, grades, prices, and preparation guidance. It connects tea enthusiasts with producers and provides source-conscious guides for making informed choices.
- Website: https://best-matcha.com


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This versatile usucha-grade matcha was specifically blended to possess a character rich enough to shine through milk while maintaining striking freshness when prepared traditionally.Unlike Kettl's other matcha varieties, Yamagumo adapts seamlessly to both latte preparations and traditional whisking. You can expect a fragrant, verdant aroma, layered sweetness, and a refreshing astringency on the finish that distinguishes it from their single-origin expressions."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Why does Kettl's Fuujun Matcha cost $65.00 while their Seisho Matcha is only $27.00?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The price difference reflects the distinct quality grades and production methods within The Hiroshi Kobayashi Collection. 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