1.     Cultivation: Matcha is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, the same plant used to make other types of green tea. However, the tea plants for matcha are shade-grown for about three to four weeks before harvest. This increases chlorophyll production, boosts the amino acid content, and gives the leaves a darker green color.

2.     Processing: After harvesting, the leaves are steamed to prevent fermentation, then dried and aged in cold storage to deepen the flavour. The dried leaves, known as tencha, are then ground into a fine powder using traditional stone mills.

3.     Preparation: Unlike other green teas, which are infused and then discarded, matcha is whisked with hot water and consumed entirely. This means you ingest the whole tea leaf and receive 100% of its nutrients.

4.     Health Benefits: Matcha is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins, linked to various health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved heart health. It also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness, and a moderate amount of caffeine.

5.     Culinary Uses: Besides being consumed as a tea, matcha is also used as an ingredient in various recipes, including smoothies, lattes, desserts, and savoury dishes.

6.     Cultural Significance: Matcha is an integral part of Japanese tea ceremonies, which emphasize the preparation, serving, and consumption of the tea in a meditative and ritualistic manner.

Our matcha comes from a small family farm in Uji, Kyoto. This is one of the most highly renowned matcha-growing regions in Japan, with matcha being grown and farmed there for over 800 years. Matcha was brought to Japan by the Buddhist monk, Eisai, who is thought to have introduced matcha to Japanese tea ceremonies.

To prepare matcha, you'll need a few essential tools and ingredients. Here’s a basic guide to what you need and how to use them:

Essential Tools:

1.     Matcha Powder: High-quality matcha powder is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Look for ceremonial-grade matcha for drinking and culinary-grade matcha for cooking and baking. Our matcha is the highest quality 'ceremonial grade' and can be purchased here.

2.     Chawan (Matcha Bowl): A wide, shallow bowl that allows for whisking the matcha properly. We have partnered with Porch Ceramics to create a bespoke matcha bowl which you can purchase here.

3.     Chasen (Bamboo Whisk): A bamboo whisk specifically designed to mix matcha and water, creating a frothy texture. This can be purchased here. We also worked with Porch Ceramics to create a unique whisk stand design to house your whisk. This allows appropriate drying of the whisk with slight separation of the bamboo prongs. This is also available here.

4.     Chashaku (Bamboo Scoop): A bamboo scoop used to measure the right amount of matcha powder. Whilst this is traditional, we decided to create a stainless steel spoon for greater longevity and perfectly sized for the correct portion. This is available here.

5.     Sifter: A small sifter or fine mesh strainer to remove clumps from the matcha powder. Our sieve is available here.

Once matcha has been opened, the oxidation process can occur, resulting in less freshness. This is the main reason why matcha is typically sold only in small quantities at a time (typically 30-40g tin or pouch). Once opened, matcha is best stored in the fridge (but we recommend storing it away from food if possible). It is best consumed within 1-3 months from opening. An unopened tin of matcha will remain fresh for 6 months from harvest.

Caffeine Content

Coffee: Higher (95-120 mg per 8 oz cup)

Matcha: Lower (70 mg per 8 oz cup)

Duration of Energy Boost

Coffee: Short-term spike followed by a crash

Matcha: Steady, sustained energy without crashes

L-Theanine

Coffee: Absent

Matcha: Present (promotes calm and focus)

Antioxidants

Coffee: Contains antioxidants, but less than matcha

Matcha: Rich in antioxidants (EGCG, catechins)

Metabolism

Coffee: Can cause rapid increase in heart rate and blood pressure

Matcha: Supports metabolism with a more balanced effect

Digestive Impact

Coffee: Can be acidic and may irritate the stomach

Matcha: Less acidic and gentler on the stomach

Mental Clarity

Coffee: Can lead to jitters or anxiety

Matcha: Enhances mental clarity and calm focus

Impact on Sleep

Coffee: Can interfere with sleep if consumed late

Matcha: Less likely to disrupt sleep due to lower caffeine levels

Flavor Profile

Coffee: Bold, robust, and often bitter

Matcha: Smooth, rich, slightly sweet

Preparation Time

Coffee: Quick and simple to brew

Matcha: Slightly more involved preparation, but still manageable

Nutritional Benefits

Coffee: Limited compared to matcha

Matcha: Contains vitamins (A, C, E, K), minerals (calcium, iron), and fiber