FAQs

Matcha, also known as 抹茶, is a unique variety of green tea with its origins in China, later introduced to Japan in 1191. What sets matcha apart from other teas is its meticulous preparation method. It involves finely grinding the choicest tea leaves from specially cultivated tea trees. Unlike conventional steeping, matcha is whisked into warm water, resulting in the consumption of the entire leaf. This process imbues matcha with a more refined flavor profile and higher nutritional value compared to other tea varieties.

High-quality matcha boasts a delightful blend of savory-sweet, vegetal, and refreshing notes. Some varieties exhibit nutty or roasted undertones, while others offer a hint of floral flavors. Superior grades of matcha carry pronounced 'umami' characteristics typical of shade-grown green tea, with only subtle traces of bitterness and a lingering finish that lingers on your palate for several minutes.

Tea, being the second most consumed beverage globally after water, has a rich and intricate history spanning various cultures across millennia. The story of matcha is a captivating journey that commenced in China, continued with the spread of Zen Buddhism to Japan, and eventually led to its pivotal role in the Japanese tea ceremony. Today, matcha enjoys worldwide popularity, earning its place as one of the most distinctive and highly-prized delicacies of the 21st century.

In traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, matcha is prepared in two distinct styles – Usucha and Koicha. However, in modern times, there are numerous ways to prepare matcha, including blended matcha beverages and a wide array of desserts. You can explore various preparation methods by visiting our "Shop by Use" section for more information.

Matcha comes from the same tea plant, Camellia sinensis, as other tea types. The leaves undergo a shading process before harvesting. Once picked, the leaves are briefly steamed to preserve their vibrant green color. Following steaming, the leaves undergo a drying and destemming process to isolate the finest leaf parts, known as tencha. The final step involves grinding the tencha leaves into a fine powder using a traditional stone grinder made from granite stone. This process produces the matcha powder, ready to be brewed. 

Matcha does contain a modest amount of caffeine. When prepared traditionally, a serving of matcha provides approximately 34mg of caffeine, which is less than one-third of what's typically found in a cup of coffee. Notably, the caffeine in matcha has a unique impact on the body, releasing more slowly and working in synergy with L-theanine, a distinctive amino acid found in green tea. This combination produces a calm-alert effect, enhancing focus without the jitters.

To make the most of matcha's caffeine content, we suggest incorporating it into your morning or early afternoon routine.

Ceremonial Matcha typically refers to matcha grades intended for traditional tea ceremonies, while Culinary Matcha is designed for use as an ingredient in beverages or dessert recipes.

For optimal matcha preparation, we recommend using a bamboo whisk.

Once you've unsealed the package, it's best to use the matcha promptly. An opened package of matcha retains its ideal freshness for approximately 6 months. To maintain its quality, store it in a cool, dry place, away from moisture, direct sunlight, and strong odors. For extended freshness, consider refrigerating an unopened package. If you plan to store it for an even longer duration (beyond 6 months), keeping it in the freezer is advisable.

The shelf life of our matcha is 24 months (2 years). Nevertheless, after opening, we recommend using it within 6 months to experience the best flavor and potency.

Matcha itself doesn't exactly expire. However, like other teas, it has an optimal freshness period that we advise for the finest taste and benefits.

Matcha offers a unique blend of calmness and revitalization, making it an excellent choice for enhancing productivity and delivering a sustained, gentle energy boost.

Contemporary scientific research confirms that matcha is brimming with naturally occurring antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, and flavonoids, all of which are linked to a wide array of health advantages. These benefits encompass strengthening the immune system, supporting heart health, aiding in weight management, reducing stress, and rejuvenating the skin.

Numerous health authorities, including the National Health Service and Mayo Clinic, have affirmed the safety of consuming matcha during pregnancy. Unlike coffee, which should be consumed in moderation during pregnancy, you can enjoy around 5 servings of hot-brewed matcha daily, keeping in mind that its caffeine is released more slowly than that of coffee.

Matcha is generally regarded as safe for consumption, with no known significant negative side effects.