They haven't had to advertise in over 140 years. Of course, when your product is of the highest quality, word travels -- even to distant shores.

Such is the reputation of France's oldest importer of fine teas, Mariage Freres (the Mariage brothers). Beginning in 1660 with voyages to Persia on behalf of the French East India Company by brothers Nicolas and Pierre, followed by the establishment in 1854 of their own business in Paris by descendents Henri and Edouard, Mariage Freres is recognized by tea connoisseurs for its dedication to selecting only the world's "finest harvests" to ensure a perfect cup of tea.

Introducing its grand tradition to Japan 10 years ago, Mariage Freres first featured its products at fine department stores. Its success in this green tea-loving country encouraged it to grace Ginza with its flagship shop in 1997. Located on high profile Suzuran-Dori, this cleverly designed four-story salon de the proves not only that old world elegance is alive and well, but that people are still willing to pay for it.