At Matcha Sunday, we celebrate the rich tradition and meticulous craftsmanship that goes into producing high-quality matcha powder, particularly Ceremonial Grade Matcha. This wondrous green powder has a rich history and plays a central role in Japanese tea ceremonies.
What is Matcha?
Matcha is a type of powdered green tea made from specially grown and processed tea leaves. Unlike regular tea, where the leaves are steeped and removed, consuming matcha means you're ingesting the whole leaf, which is ground into a fine powder. This process not only enhances the flavor but also maximizes the health benefits derived from the tea leaves.
The Journey of Matcha Production
1. Cultivation
The journey of matcha begins under the delicate care of skilled farmers. The tea plants designated for matcha, typically of the Camellia sinensis variety, are shaded for up to four weeks before harvest. This shading increases the chlorophyll content, turning the leaves a vibrant green and enhancing the production of beneficial compounds like L-theanine.
2. Harvesting
Only the finest, hand-picked young leaves are selected for ceremonial matcha production. Harvesting occurs once a year in the spring when the tea leaves reach the peak of flavor and nutrient content. This careful selection ensures that Ceremonial Grade Matcha, such as our Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder (50g), maintains its superior taste and quality.
3. Steaming and Drying
After harvesting, the leaves are immediately steamed to prevent oxidation, preserving the vibrant green color and fresh flavor. They are then air-dried and sorted according to quality.
4. Grinding
The dried leaves, now called tencha, are stone-ground into a fine powder. Traditionally, this process involves granite mills and can take up to an hour to grind just 30 grams of matcha. This slow, careful grinding is crucial for achieving the fine texture and smooth flavor prized in Ceremonial matcha.
Ceremonial Grade Matcha: A Class of Its Own
Ceremonial Grade Matcha represents the pinnacle of matcha quality, used traditionally in Japanese tea ceremonies. It is characterized by its smooth, earthy flavor and vibrant green hue. The process of cultivating and processing this grade of matcha is meticulous, ensuring that the drinker experiences matcha in its purest form.
To experience the true essence of matcha, try our Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder (50g). Its unmatched quality offers an authentic and enriching matcha experience.
Discover More
Dive into the world of matcha and uncover the traditions of a centuries-old craft. Whether you're new to matcha or an aficionado, exploring the nuances of production adds depth to each sip.
Visit Matcha Sunday to explore our full range of matcha products and learn more about this extraordinary superfood.
