What Is Matcha? The Green Tea That Hits Different
Matcha is vibrant, focused, and a little bit magical. It’s not just green tea—it’s a fine powder of shade-grown leaves, whisked into a frothy, creamy experience. Whether you sip it slowly in a quiet morning ritual or shake it on the go, matcha offers a lift unlike any other tea.
Let’s explore what makes matcha so unique, how it compares to regular green tea, and how to find your favorite way to enjoy it.
What Makes Matcha Different from Green Tea?
Matcha and traditional green tea both come from the same plant (Camellia sinensis), but they’re grown, harvested, and consumed completely differently.
- Matcha is grown in the shade for 2–4 weeks before harvest. This increases chlorophyll and L-theanine, making the tea more vibrant and less bitter.
- The entire leaf is consumed. Instead of steeping and discarding, matcha is whisked and fully ingested—giving you more nutrients, antioxidants, and caffeine.
- It’s stone-ground into powder, creating a smooth, creamy texture and bold flavor unlike any steeped tea.
If loose-leaf green tea is a gentle infusion, matcha is a full-body experience.
Flavor Profile: Fresh, Grassy, and Naturally Sweet
High-quality matcha is:
- Grassy and sweet, with fresh, vegetal notes
- Rich in umami, thanks to its amino acid profile
- Creamy and frothy, especially when whisked
- Bright green in color, never dull or brown
And unlike coffee or energy drinks, matcha delivers a calm, sustained energy—thanks to the balance of caffeine and L-theanine.
How to Make Matcha
You don’t need a full ceremony to enjoy matcha—but a little intention goes a long way.
The Traditional Way (Usucha):
- Sift 1–2 tsp matcha into a bowl
- Add 2 oz hot water (~175°F)
- Whisk in a zigzag motion until frothy
- Enjoy as-is or top with more water/milk
Other Ways to Enjoy It:
- Whisk into iced water for a refreshing shake
- Blend with milk and sweetener for a creamy latte
- Add to smoothies, bakes, or even dressings
Tea to Try If You Love Matcha
🍵 Matcha Ascend
Organic ceremonial-grade matcha, stoneground from shade-grown leaves. Smooth, grassy, and naturally sweet with a rich emerald hue. Whisk it, blend it, sip it—your go-to matcha for calm focus and clean energy.
Matcha Is a Moment
More than a drink, matcha is a ritual. A pause in your day. A vibrant green lift when you need clarity without chaos. Whether you’re a longtime lover or just matcha-curious, this is your invitation to experience tea in its most concentrated, most beautiful form.