It is difficult to tell which Matcha Tea has a ceremonial grade to its quality especially if you are a beginner. In the market, there are products sold on the internet for the same type of Matcha tea powder. Yet the quality is worst compared to products that are known for their quality. The issues of the quality do get everyone’s attention. Including the specific grades of the powder to use.
How can you tell you purchased a quality Matcha tea? The grade of Matcha is defined by many factors:
1.) Location of the Tea.
2.) Premium quality has strict requirements when they are made. This means young leaves are carefully selected to make the premium tea powder. The treatment of the tea leaves. Before processing, the leaves are not exposed to sunlight. This type of process makes the powder color appear vibrant green.
3.) The treatment of the tea leaves. Before processing, the leaves are not exposed to sunlight. This type of process makes the powder color appear vibrant green.
4.) The texture, quality, and density.
5.) It is made from stems or leaves. Teas made from stems have different flavor and aroma. They are not bitter. Though tea stems is used for drinking. Stems are by-products of making Matcha. While the leaves selected for Matcha production.
6.) The fineness of the powder. According to my research, Matcha tea powder from Japan has a darker color compared to China made tea powder.
7.) Tea leaves made from granite stone mills have the best quality. Compared to Matcha Tea made from machines. Granite stone mill is the best for attaining the freshness, texture, color, and density of the tea leaves.
8.) The oxidation of the leaves. Tea leaves exposed too much oxygen becomes dull and appears brownish-green. You will know if it has the right amount if it smells like hay.
The internet has a vast selection of Matcha Tea and their specific type of grade (which I will cover in my next article). The only way to know what type you are going to buy is to read the labels. In addition, do not be enticed by lower price products. High-quality Matcha Tea is generally expensive above $20 or more.