How to choose good matcha? Learn about quality grades and their uses.
If you've ever considered buying and making matcha at home, you've probably noticed that not all matcha powder is the same—and that's no coincidence. There are several types of matcha available on the market, varying in quality, color, flavor, and purpose.
It's worth taking a moment to familiarize yourself with the different grades of this unique tea – it will help you choose the matcha that best suits your needs and the way you want to enjoy it.
What are the differences between different types of matcha?
Unlike wines or cheeses, matcha doesn't have appellation certificates (AOCs) or uniform quality markings. This means that under the name "matcha" you can find both high-quality, hand-ground tea from the first harvest and low-quality, industrially produced powder that has little in common with authentic matcha.
For consumers, especially beginners, these differences can be difficult to discern. Therefore, it's worth knowing the basic criteria for assessing matcha quality and the classifications used in Japan and around the world, which will allow you to better understand the offerings.
Why is matcha more than just green tea?
Matcha is made from tencha tea leaves that are shaded for 2–4 weeks before harvest. This process allows the plants to produce more chlorophyll and L-theanine, turning the leaves a vibrant green, rich in antioxidants and other valuable nutrients.
Unlike traditional loose-leaf teas, matcha isn't brewed— it's dissolved in water , meaning you consume the entire leaf. This makes matcha more potent than traditional tea: it promotes concentration, cleanses the body, and gently stimulates without the sudden energy crash that coffee provides.
What determines the quality of matcha?
As with other food products, the quality of matcha depends on many factors – primarily the quality of the raw material and its processing. Here are the most important elements that influence the final quality of the tea:
- Harvest date – the best matcha comes from the first spring harvest (May), when the leaves are at their most tender and aromatic. Subsequent harvests produce a lower-quality product.
- The premium part of the bush is made from the youngest, highest leaves, which contain the most active ingredients and have the mildest flavor.
- Processing – High-quality matcha has its stems and fibers removed, and the leaves are traditionally ground using stone millstones . This slow and precise process preserves nutrients and achieves a silky texture.
- Storage conditions – Matcha is highly sensitive to light, oxygen, and moisture. Improper storage can quickly deteriorate its flavor and properties, even if it was initially of high quality.
Matcha classification
In Japan, producers use a technical grading system for matcha, ranging from "A" (basic quality) to "AAAAA" (highest quality), which indicates both the degree of grinding and the quality of the leaves. However, these grades rarely appear on packaging available in Europe ; they are primarily used internally within the tea industry.
For consumers, especially outside Japan, a simpler but more accessible quality classification is used in the form of 5 main grades .
Prestige / Ultra Premium Grade Matcha
Top-class, exclusive matcha for connoisseurs and lovers of unique flavor experiences.
Production takes place in very small batches, with extraordinary care and attention to every detail.
- Taste: completely devoid of bitterness, extremely velvety, almost sweet, with a long-lasting and intense umami
- Color: deep emerald, luminous and intense green
- Application: for solo tasting only – a celebration of taste and the moment
- Price: Typically 2-3 times higher than ceremonial grade matcha
- For whom: For those who seek luxury in a cup and want to experience matcha in its purest, perfect form
Ceremonial Grade Matcha
The highest quality matcha used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.
Obtained exclusively from the first spring harvest, from the most delicate, hand-selected leaves.
- Taste: silky, without bitterness, with a distinct umami
- Color: shiny, intense green
- Application: only for drinking with water – without additives to appreciate the full flavor
- Process: slowly ground in stone mills, which preserves the structure and nutritional value of the leaves.
- Properties: rich in antioxidants, chlorophyll and L-theanine – supports concentration, detoxification and relaxation
- Perfect for: daily rituals and solemn moments of reflection
Premium matcha (Premium Grade / Classic Grade)
The golden mean – the perfect balance of quality and price.
Matcha is perfect for everyday use, appreciated by both beginners and more advanced tea lovers.
- Taste: balanced, delicate, with a hint of subtle umami
- Color: vivid, natural green
- Application: for drinking alone with water, as well as for matcha latte, smoothies, desserts or cosmetics
- Properties: high content of antioxidants, L-theanine and vitamins - has a stimulating and relaxing effect at the same time
- For whom: Ideal as a first high-quality matcha for everyday consumption
Blending Grade / Café Grade Matcha
Matcha developed for milk or fruit-based drinks.
Often used in cafes and restaurants as a base for creative compositions.
- Taste: intense, with a distinct bitterness – goes well with milk and sweet additions
- Color: green with olive or yellowish tone
- Application: matcha latte, cocktails, milkshakes, smoothies
- Properties: higher than culinary grade, although lower than premium grade
- For whom: baristas, chefs and lovers of drinks with character
Culinary Grade / Kitchen Grade Matcha
The lowest grade of matcha, used mainly as an ingredient in dishes and drinks.
Obtained from later harvests and lower quality leaves.
- Taste: intensely bitter, devoid of umami
- Color: olive green, often with a yellowish tint
- Application: baked goods, ice cream, pancakes, desserts, smoothies – not recommended for drinking on its own
- Properties: lowest nutrient content of all classes
- For whom: for chefs, confectioners and people looking for a natural dye with a strong flavor
What should you pay attention to when choosing matcha?
Regardless of the class, good matcha should be characterized by:
- vivid, light green color – the more intense, the higher the quality;
- smooth, almost powdery consistency – evidence of careful grinding of the leaves;
- fresh, slightly herbal aroma – with a hint of sweetness and umami;
- lack of obvious bitterness , especially in the upper classes.
It is also worth paying attention to the country of origin – the best quality matcha comes from Japan, especially from the regions of Shizuoka, Uji (Kyoto), Nishio and Kagoshima.
Summary – which matcha should you choose?
Choosing the right type of matcha depends primarily on how you intend to use it:
Matcha class |
Characteristic features |
Best use |
| Prestigious | Complete lack of bitterness, almost sweet, long umami, deep green color | For special occasions – to be enjoyed without any additions |
| Ceremonial | Delicate umami flavor, intense color, smooth texture | Consumed in its classic, pure form |
| Premium | Balanced flavor, slightly stronger profile | Daily drink, matcha latte, smoothie |
| Cafeteria | Green with an olive tint, goes well with milk and fruit. | Matcha latte, cocktails, milkshakes, smoothies |
| Culinary | Intense flavor, more bitter, darker color | Baked goods, desserts, drinks with additives |
Where to buy high-quality matcha?
To fully appreciate the flavor and properties of matcha, it's worth choosing products from trusted suppliers. The Royal Brand store ( https://przyprawyimatcha.pl/ ) offers a wide selection of certified matcha teas, including:
- Japanese Organic Green Tea 100g Powdered Tea from Shizuoka Province
- Certified Matcha Premium Ceremonial 100g Green Tea Powder
- Certified Japanese Ceremonial Matcha Premium Organic 100g Can
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How is matcha different from regular green tea?
Matcha is a powdered form of green tea in which the entire leaf is consumed, not just the infusion. This provides the body with more nutrients, such as antioxidants, L-theanine, and chlorophyll. It has a more intense flavor, more potent effects, and a deeper color than classic green tea.
Does matcha contain caffeine?
Yes, matcha does contain caffeine – a 1-gram serving of matcha (about half a teaspoon) contains approximately 35–70 mg of caffeine, which is equivalent to a cup of espresso. Thanks to the presence of L-theanine, the caffeine in matcha has a gentler effect – stimulating the mind, but without the "crash" effect of coffee.
How to store matcha to keep it fresh?
Matcha is best stored in an airtight, opaque container, away from light, heat, and moisture—ideally in the refrigerator. This will help it retain its color, aroma, and nutritional value longer.
