Matcha is shade-grown green tea stone-ground into a fine powder, so you drink the whole leaf. The result is vivid green, smooth and full of umami, with grades made for whisking, for lattes and for baking. Whisked in a bowl or blended into a latte, it is a little ritual of its own.
Matcha Powder
Matcha in Canada: how to choose
Match the grade to how you use it. For whisking with water, choose ceremonial grade: Supreme Matcha and Imperial Matcha Ceremony Grade 1 are smooth, sweet and rich in umami. For daily lattes, Everyday Uji Matcha has enough body to stand up to milk.
For baking, smoothies and cooking, Culinary Matcha has a bold flavour that holds up with sugar and butter. New to matcha? A matcha accessories set such as the Japanese Matcha Ceremonial Kit (bowl, whisk and scoop) makes it easy to whisk without lumps. Sift the powder, add a little water and whisk in a zigzag until frothy.
| Grade | Taste | Best for | Try |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ceremonial | Smooth, sweet, umami | Whisked with 70–80°C water | Supreme Matcha |
| Top ceremonial | Rich, creamy, vivid green | Whisked, no milk | Imperial Matcha Ceremony Grade 1 |
| Everyday | Balanced, a little grassy | Lattes and iced matcha | Everyday Uji Matcha |
| Culinary | Bold, slightly bitter | Baking, smoothies, cooking | Culinary Matcha |
| Starter kit | Bowl, whisk and scoop | Learning to whisk | Japanese Matcha Ceremonial Kit |
Matcha FAQ
What is the difference between ceremonial and culinary matcha?
Ceremonial matcha is made from the youngest, most tender leaves and tastes smooth, sweet and savory, so it is meant to be whisked with water and drunk straight. Culinary matcha has a stronger, more astringent flavour that stands up to milk, sugar and flour in lattes and recipes.
How do I make matcha?
Sift 1 to 2 g (about half to one teaspoon) into a bowl, add 60 to 90 ml of water at about 71 to 79°C, and whisk briskly in a zigzag motion with a bamboo whisk until a fine foam forms. For a latte, top with steamed milk.
How should I store matcha?
Matcha is sensitive to air, light, heat and moisture. Keep the tin tightly closed, store it in a cool, dark place or the fridge once opened, and use it within a few weeks for the best colour and flavour.
Does matcha have caffeine?
Yes. Because you consume the whole ground leaf, matcha generally contains more caffeine per serving than a cup of steeped green tea.