The difference is in the grade: a guide to buy the right matcha

COLOUR: organic matcha tea powder of the highest grade has has a bright and vibrant green colour, a lower quality matcha tea will usually have a more yellowish or brownish faded colour. The bright green colour is an effect of the shading process before the harvest. So, if the colour of matcha tea is not bright green, then it is clear that it is not grown in the shade, which in turn means a lower nutritional content. Another aspect of the colour belongs to the period of the harvest and the position of tea leaf on the plant. Highest grades of matcha are harvested in Spring and coming from the very top, youngest tea leaves selected.

 

FLAVOUR: Loose tea leaves may have a bitter taste. This flavour is common in most matcha products. The best quality matcha tea will be rich, umami, soft, sweet and without bitter taste. You shouldn't feel the need for additives. The highest grade is harvested from freshly grown Tencha tea leaves, which are naturally sweet and have a delicate fruity taste. 

What if I can't taste it or look at the colour before making the purchase?

Then check the grade, the organic certification and the price. Here's how:

 If you are not able to taste or look at the colour personally before making a purchase it would be best to choose a matcha that is classed as 'Ceremonial grade' or 'Premium first harvest', making sure that the matcha powder does not contain preservatives or colorants. Lower grades are usually called Traditional, Daily, Culinary or Cooking. They are much cheaper but also less soluble, of a lifeless green. A great way to use these grades is to use it in bakery recipes, even if the "Premium" grade will always have a better taste.

Also the price is a good indicator of the quality! 30 g of ceremonial grade matcha powder can take over one hour only in the grinding process.

 

 

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