Matcha is known for its vibrant green color and many health benefits but what exactly does it taste like? Does matcha taste good? Our experts have put together the ultimate matcha tasting guide to help you understand the delicious and delicate flavor of matcha that should be enjoyed by everyone!

What is matcha?

To fully understand what matcha green tea tastes like, we must understand exactly what matcha is and how it is made. Matcha is derived from shade-grown matcha green tea leaves known as Camelia Sinesis, these leaves are carefully plucked during the spring after an approximate 2-3 week growing period. These matcha leaves are then dried and made into a fine powder through a stone grinding process. This matcha powder can then be consumed in many different forms, the most traditional being the ceremonial style of drinking called "Usucha", with water alone. Matcha has now been cultivated and consumed in China and Japan for thousands of years, and it is also one of the healthiest ways to consume tea!

How Is Matcha Different From Other Teas?

• Growing Process - The tea is grown in the shade. The process requires that the tea be completely shielded from sunlight. The lack of sunlight gives the tea a bright color through the boosting of chlorophyll. Other benefits include the altering of caffeine, sugars, and antioxidants. Matcha tea producers have the ability to also control the flavor.
• Seasonal - Because Matcha grows seasonally, the buds have to be plucked during a certain time period. There is a small time window for production, which also accounts for the cost of the tea.
• Stone Ground - Unlike traditional teas, the Matcha leaves dried while laid flat to convert to tencha. After this process, the remaining material is ground in a mill to make a light green smooth powder.
• Steamed Process - The plants are treated with steamed heat for 4 hours. The oxidation process changes the flavor, which can be described as sweet and smooth.
• Consumption vs. Extraction - Unlike the traditional process, the Matcha tea powder ground from the leaves is dissolved into hot water and drank. The powder process is what gives it the Matcha taste.

Matcha Grades

There are many different elements of matcha that can affect its taste, one of the main ones being the grade of matcha. Matcha powder is available in two primary grades (with some brands offering more):

• Ceremonial Grade - The highest quality buds and leaves are considered ceremonial grade. These leaves are given the most consideration during the cultivation process. Extra attention is paid to taste and the level of freshness. Additionally, ceremonial grade Matcha is consumed without any additives like sugar, lemon, or honey. Only through this process can the natural flavor be appreciated. What makes ceremonial grade matcha powder the most premium is the fact that it comes from "first-harvest" leaves, which are the youngest and most tender leaves. They are often brighter in color due to the higher concentration of chrolophyll, and they contain less bitterness in taste.
• Culinary Grade - The culinary grade that is used to mix with other drinks or food has a more distinct flavor. The color is a bit duller and the powder may come from a variety of leaves. This matcha grade has a more astringent flavor making it perfect for including in cooking, baking, and smoothies.

• Water Type - Fresh spring water is the best option to bring out the flavor. The second best type would be filtered water.
• Water Temperature - A minimum of 175 degrees F is about how hot you should have your water for the best flavor. Avoid boiling water as it can make the tea bitter.
• Water To Powder Ratio - You can adjust the water to powder ratio to determine the flavor. You can make it at a ratio for everyday drinking. You can also add more Matcha if you prefer it full-bodied.

Matcha Taste - The Bottom Line

Now that we know how matcha is made and the variables which can affect the taste of the matcha, let's dive into exactly how matcha tastes...

Matcha is known to have a very delicate and acquired taste which is best described as umami with hints of nuttiness, sweetness, grassiness, and occasional bitterness (depending on the matcha grade). Umami is one of the five core tastes that we can experience and it is derived from Japanese meaning "essense of deliciousness", a very fitting word for this lovely drink. Umami is possibly the most unique taste we can experience and can best be described as a savory flavor. This is what gives matcha is distinct and complex flavor profile, as mentioned it has many different flavor notes, and the best matcha powders seem to balance these flavor notes perfectly.

The beautiful flavor of matcha can be enjoyed in many different ways. The highest quality matchas are most suitable for drinking with hot water, the ceremonial way, while we also enjoy drinking matcha in a matcha latte, matcha smoothies or cooked into various baked good.

Matcha has so much to offer in terms of benefits, and when you truly start to appreciate its flavor and the diverse ways in which it can be consumed, that is when you enjoy it the most. Whether you are drinking matcha traditionally or in a matcha latte or smoothie, we always recommend using the best matcha powder and brands for the best experience!

FAQ's

Can the taste of matcha vary between different brands or grades?A: Yes, the taste of matcha can vary significantly depending on the brand and grade. Higher-quality ceremonial grade matcha tends to have a smoother, sweeter flavor, while lower-grade matcha may have a more pronounced bitterness. Different brands may also offer unique taste profiles, so it's worth exploring to find the one that suits your palate best.

What does matcha taste like?

Matcha has a unique and complex flavor profile. It is often described as having a vegetal, grassy, and slightly sweet taste with a pleasant, mild bitterness. The quality and grade of matcha can influence its flavor, with higher-quality matcha tending to be smoother and sweeter.

Is matcha very bitter?

Matcha can have a slightly bitter undertone, but the bitterness is usually balanced by its natural sweetness. Some individuals may find it an acquired taste, especially if they are new to green tea. However, many people come to appreciate and enjoy matcha's unique flavor over time.