If you're interested in matcha tea, you've probably heard terms like ceremonial matcha , premium matcha , or culinary matcha . But what do these matcha grades really mean? And most importantly, which matcha should you choose based on your use : traditional drink, gourmet latte, or creative recipes?
In this guide, we explain everything about the different grades of matcha and help you make the right choice, with a focus on our two gems at Noen Matcha : our ceremonial matcha and our premium matcha .
🫖 What is a matcha "grade"?
The grade corresponds to the quality level of the matcha. It depends on several criteria:
-
the part of the sheet used,
-
harvest time,
-
the manufacturing process,
-
the texture, color, taste, and fineness of the powder.
🎌 The higher the grade, the smoother, more vibrant, and richer in umami the matcha.
There are 3 main categories:
🍃 1. Ceremonial matcha
✅ The most refined of grades
Used in traditional tea ceremonies in Japan , ceremonial matcha is a higher grade , reserved for pure tasting (with water only).
Features :
-
Color: bright emerald green
-
Taste: sweet, velvety, without bitterness , rich in umami
-
Texture: extremely fine , like talc
-
Origin: first leaves of the first harvest (spring)
🌿 The Noen Matcha ceremony matcha
At Noen Matcha , our ceremonial matcha is carefully grown in Uji, Japan, then stone-ground. It's perfect for meditative moments , morning rituals, or simply to discover the essence of pure matcha , without sugar or milk.
➡️ To be enjoyed in Usucha (light matcha) or Koicha (thick matcha).
👉 Discover our ceremonial matcha
🌱 2. Premium matcha
Premium matcha falls between culinary and ceremonial grade. It retains high taste quality while being more versatile .
Features :
-
Color: intense green
-
Taste: light, with a pleasant hint of bitterness
-
Texture: fine and creamy
-
Use: Ideal for matcha lattes, smoothies, and cold drinks
💚 Premium matcha Noen Matcha
Our premium matcha is designed for everyday lovers : it dissolves easily, is delicious in a latte with plant-based milk (oat, coconut, soy, etc.) and offers a lasting dose of energy without a jittery spike.
➡️ The perfect ally for productive mornings or wellness breaks.
🍰 3. Culinary matcha: for cooking and baking
Culinary matcha is the most accessible grade . It is intended to be incorporated into recipes : cakes, creams, cookies, energy balls, etc.
Features :
-
Color: duller green (sometimes yellow/olive)
-
Taste: bitter , often masked by sugar or other ingredients
-
Texture: coarser
-
Price: more affordable
Which matcha should you choose according to your needs?
| Need | Recommended type of matcha |
|---|---|
| Pure tasting, Japanese rituals | 🟢 Matcha ceremony |
| Latte, smoothie, daily drink | 🌿 Premium Matcha |
| Pastries, ice creams, desserts | 🍰 Culinary Matcha |
✨ Why choose Noen Matcha?
At Noen Matcha , we exclusively select 100% Japanese matchas , cultivated according to traditional methods, without additives or colorings.
💎 Ceremonial and premium quality guaranteed , freshly imported from Japan.
➡️ If you are looking for a matcha:
-
high-end for traditional use → Matcha ceremony
-
versatile and tasty for everyday use → Premium Matcha
🔚 In summary
Matcha is more than just a green powder: it's an art, a tradition, and a natural energy. Choosing the right grade of matcha guarantees a taste experience that lives up to your expectations.
Ready to make your choice? Discover our 100% made in Japan collection and savor the moment 💚
