It is difficult to tell which Matcha Green Tea has a ceremonial grade to its quality if you are a beginner.
In the market, there are products sold on the internet for the same type of Matcha tea powder. 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 has many factors:
1.) Location of the Tea.
2.) They must have strict requirements when made. This means they use young leaves to make the highest quality tea powder. The treatment of the tea leaves. In 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. In processing, sunlight is an important factor for the leaves. This type of process makes the powder color appear vibrant green.
4.) The texture, quality, and density.
5.) Comprises of stems or leaves. Teas made from stems have different flavor and aroma. They are not bitter. Drink the tea stems. Stems are by-products of making Matcha. Young leaf selected for Matcha production.
6.) The fineness of the powder. Matcha tea powder from Japan has a darker color than the China made tea powder according to my research.
7.) Tea leaves made from granite stone mills have the best quality. Compare 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. Do not be entice buying lower price products. High-quality Matcha Tea is generally expensive above $20 or more.