A good matcha doesn't just look the part – it feels, smells, and tastes like a sip of perfection. Discerning the quality of matcha involves engaging all your senses to spot a blend that stands above the rest. Here’s how you can become a matcha detective and spot the clues of a premium powder.
Texture Tells a Tale
Begin with the feel. A superior matcha powder, such as the ones in Genuine Tea's Kato Matcha range, is fine to the touch, almost silky. It's ground from the youngest, most tender tea leaves, using stone mills, which results in a finer grain. A coarser texture could indicate older leaves or a rushed grinding process.
Aroma: The Scent of Purity
High-quality matcha emits a fresh, grassy aroma with subtle hints of sweetness – it’s a fragrance that captivates and invigorates. An absence of this vibrant bouquet or the presence of a stale, hay-like smell can suggest a matcha that's past its prime or improperly stored.
Flavour: The Proof Is in the Sipping
The true test of matcha’s quality is in its flavour. Premium matcha strikes a delicate balance between a natural, sweet undertone and a profound umami presence, without an overbearing bitterness. The first sip should feel like an embrace between subtle sweetness and rich, creamy savouriness – a taste profile that Genuine Tea's Kato Matcha proudly delivers.
Colour Once More: A Second Glance
Revisit the colour, this time in a brewed state. When whisked with water, high-grade matcha should bloom into a bright green froth, lively and inviting. A dull, brownish-green brew often signifies oxidation or inferior quality leaves.
Conclusion:
Mastering the art of spotting a superior matcha is a sensory journey worth taking. Remember, the finest matcha is smooth, vibrant, and fragrant, with a taste that's as rich as its colour. Trust your senses, and let them lead you to the purest, most delightful matcha experience with our Kato Matcha.