Matcha is a finely ground green tea for moments when you want caffeine in a calmer, more balanced form. It has a round and sweet taste, without any unpleasant bitterness, and leaves a smooth, creamy impression on the tongue. It is ideal for traditional usucha preparation, where its purity and natural sweetness come to the fore, but it works just as well in matcha lattes or simple recipes – from morning smoothies to desserts. Its quality corresponds to what is often calledthe "ceremonial"grade, so you can drink it every day or save it for moments when you want something truly delicious and easy to prepare.
Its origins lie in the Tenryū area of Shizuoka Prefecture, in the hills where temperatures vary, fog is frequent, and tea trees grow more slowly. This gives the leaves more amino acids – and therefore a natural sweetness and a delicate, soothing taste. The gardens are mainly tended by small farmers who work by hand and use gentle methods. This gives the tea a clean, clear expression without harshness, and it dissolves beautifully even at lower water temperatures, making it tolerant of home preparation. Tenryū is also a traditional area for growing high-quality tea, which is evident in every batch – in the color, aroma, and balance of the cup.
Matcha comes from the first spring harvest. About three weeks before harvesting, the bushes are shaded to increase the content of theanine and chlorophyll – these are responsible for the rich green color, delicacy, and sweet, umami impression. After harvesting, the leaves are gently steamed, dried and then slowly ground on granite stones into an extremely fine powder. Grinding and packaging are done in small batches, and the tea reaches us shortly after processing to preserve its color, aroma and taste. All you need is a strainer, a whisk, and 70–80 °C water; if you fancy a creamier cup, add milk or an alternative. If you love coffee and want a change of pace from time to time, make some room in your cupboard – this tea is an everyday ritual you'll quickly fall in love with.