FAQ

Differences between Grades of Matcha

Ceremonial Grade

This is the highest quality matcha, made from the youngest, tender leaves picked from the top of the tea plant. It is vibrant green, finely ground, and has a smooth, delicate flavor.

Taste: Sweet, creamy, and slightly vegetal with a smooth umami finish.

Premium Grade

Slightly lower in quality than ceremonial grade, premium matcha is still made from high-quality leaves, but may include a mix of younger and slightly older leaves. It has a slightly more robust flavor but still maintains a vibrant green color.

Taste: Smooth with subtle vegetal and sweet notes, though with a more pronounced green tea flavor than ceremonial-grade matcha.

Culinary Grade

Made from older, mature leaves, culinary-grade matcha is usually darker in color and has a more astringent, bitter taste. It’s still finely ground but often used in recipes.

Taste: More bitter and grassy compared to higher-grade matcha, with less umami.

 

Ingredient Grade

This is the lowest quality matcha, often made from leaves that are too old or from plants with less care in the cultivation process. It is more affordable but doesn’t offer the delicate flavor or vibrant color of higher-grade matcha.

Taste: Very bitter and less flavorful, often more grassy or earthy with a duller green color.