Are there different types of matcha, or is all powder the same? Not only are all matchas different, there are actually multiple different ways to categorize matcha.
In this article, we’re going to give you a crash course into the different types of matcha tea. We’ll show you why there is so much more to matcha than “ceremonial grade” and explore the different regions, varieties and grades of premium matcha.
Let’s get started!
Types of matcha explained
So there are a few different ways to categorize types of matcha tea. A common way to distinguish different types of matcha is the catch-all culinary vs ceremonial grade, but this doesn’t even scratch the surface!
Like wine, matcha can be broken down by region and cultivar or varietal. These 2 factors are the main distinction used to categorize the different types of matcha. There is also a way to categorize the quality of a matcha, beyond ceremonial grade which we will discuss later.
Types of matcha by Cultivar
Just like wine is broken down into varietals, teas like matcha are broken down into “cultivars” or cultivated varieties. These different strains of tea plants determine everything from the plants ideal growing condition to its nutrient and flavor profile.
Most matcha is made from Yabukita, but there are some specialty types matcha powders that are made from more exotic cultivars like okumidori, saemidori and ujihikari. These matchas are more difficult to cultivate, but they tend to produce a sweeter, more nuanced flavor with less bitterness.
Types of matcha by Region
In addition to cultivar, different types of matcha green tea can be broken down by the region they hail from. Different regions have different soil types, temperature and rainfall and all of these factors translate into the flavor of the final tea.
The most famous regions for matcha are Yame and Uji. Because these types of matcha are the most well known, they command the highest price but there is also some great matcha coming out of Shizuoka and Kagoshima.
Types of matcha by Quality
The terms “culinary grade” and “ceremonial grade” don’t really have a technical definition. We like to refer to matcha meant for plain drinking as ceremonial grade, but within ceremonial grade, the matcha pros use 3 further distinctions.
Keiko matcha
The term “ceremonial grade” is derived from the Japanese tea ceremony, but tea ceremony practitioners categorize matcha based on how they use it. The first is “Keiko Matcha” and this is used for practicing the tea ceremony.
Keiko matcha would be considered extremely high quality by most people’s standards, but in the world of the tea ceremony it is only good enough to use for practice.
Usucha Matcha
“Usucha” or thin tea is prepared during regular tea ceremonies, and this is one of the different types of matcha powder. This matcha is good enough to be served to guests, but only in the more casual tea ceremony where thin tea is served.
This matcha bowl is usually prepared with 2 grams of powder and 70ml of water. Rather than being mixed into milk, it’s just whisked into water. The matcha is smooth enough to drink plain, and the foam on top creates a light and airy consistency.
Koicha Matcha
The final of the different types of matcha tea is koicha matcha. This is considered to be the highest quality of the three types of matcha used in the tea ceremony. This matcha is suitable for “koicha” or thick tea, and it is served in special tea ceremonies.
These types of matcha are prepared with 4 grams of powder and 50ml of water. This creates a thick matcha paste and it amplifies the flavor. Even the smallest amount of bitterness will shine through, so the matcha needs to be extremely high quality.
Different types of matcha drinks
In addition to different types of matcha powder, there are also different types of matcha drinks. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy this magical green powder:
Warm Matcha Latte
A warm matcha latte is one of the most comforting types of matcha drinks, blending smooth steamed milk with finely whisked matcha powder. It’s a cozy way to explore the different types of matcha and how each grade tastes when prepared hot.
Iced Matcha
An iced matcha latte is a refreshing twist within the many types of matcha green tea beverages. Cold milk and vibrant matcha powder create a lightly sweet, energizing drink perfect for warm days. It’s one of the most popular types of matcha drinks, ideal for showcasing different types of matcha powder and how their flavor changes when served cold.
Matcha lemonade
Matcha lemonade mixes bright citrus with earthy tea, creating one of the most refreshing different types of matcha drinks. The blend highlights how versatile the types of matcha tea can be, especially when paired with fruit.
Dirty matcha latte
A dirty matcha latte combines espresso with matcha to create a bold, layered drink that appeals to both coffee and tea lovers. It’s a fun way to combine the two most popular caffeinated beverages - tea and coffee, which are normally at odds with one-another.
