Frequently Asked Questions About Matcha
What is Matcha and How Is It Made?
Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder made from specially grown shade cultivated tea leaves. Unlike regular green tea, where leaves are steeped and discarded, matcha is whisked into water so you consume the entire leaf and all its nutrients.
The journey of matcha begins in the tea fields of Japan, where the tea plants are shaded for about 3-4 weeks before harvest. This shading process increases chlorophyll levels, enhances the vibrant green color, and boosts the production of L-theanine, an amino acid known for promoting calm focus.
Only the youngest, most tender leaves from the first spring harvest are hand-picked for premium matcha. These leaves are then steamed to stop oxidation, dried, and carefully stone-ground into an ultra-fine powder using traditional granite mills—a slow process that preserves flavor and nutrients.
Our ceremonial grade matcha is a perfect example of this meticulous process. It’s crafted from first flush leaves, offering a smooth, umami-rich taste and a brilliant green hue that reflects its exceptional quality.
What makes first flush spring harvest matcha special?
Matcha crafted from the first flush tea leaves of the spring harvest—like our Hizashi and Fuga—are considered the highest quality. These young, tender leaves are packed with flavor and nutrients, producing a smoother, sweeter, and more vibrant matcha compared to later harvests.
What are the health benefits of drinking matcha?
Matcha is rich in antioxidants, especially EGCG, which supports metabolism and cellular health. It also contains L-theanine, which promotes calm focus, and caffeine for sustained energy without the jitters. Regular consumption may support heart health,detoxification, and mental clarity.
How much matcha can I drink per day?
Most people enjoy 1–2 servings per day. Each serving contains about 60–80 mg of caffeine, so it’s best to adjust based on your sensitivity. Matcha’s calming properties make it suitable for morning or early afternoon use.
Why does the best matcha come from Japan?
Japan has centuries of expertise in cultivating and producing matcha. The unique climate, soil, and traditional shading techniques used result in matcha with superior flavor, color, and nutritional profile.
How can I tell if matcha is high-quality?
High-quality matcha has:
- A vibrant green color (not dull or yellowish)
- A smooth, umami-rich flavor with little bitterness
- A fine, silky texture
- A fresh, grassy aroma
What is the difference between ceremonial and culinary grade matcha?
- Ceremonial grade matcha is made from the youngest leaves and is best enjoyed whisked with water. It’s smooth, vibrant, and delicate.
- Culinary grade matcha is made from later harvests giving it more robust and slightly bitter flavor that is an ideal for mixing into recipes, lattes, and desserts.
Both grades are nutritious, but their
uses and flavor profiles differ.
Why is matcha more expensive than other teas?
Matcha’s price reflects its labor-intensive production: shading the plants, hand-picking the youngest leaves, stone-grinding, and careful packaging. Premium matcha also comes from limited harvests and specific regions in Japan, ensuring quality and authenticity.
When is the best time to drink matcha?
Matcha is ideal in the morning or early afternoon when you need focused energy. Thanks to its combination of caffeine and L-theanine, it provides a calm alertness perfect for work, study, or creative tasks. Avoid drinking it too late in the day if you're sensitive to caffeine.
