Matcha

Caffeine Content: Moderate Caffeine - High Caffeine

Depending on how much Matcha is added

Ingredients: Fine green tea powder

Flavor Profile: Smooth - Vegetal - Semi Sweet

Brewing Instructions: 

Amount: Sift 1-2 teaspoons per 6oz

Water Temperature: 175°

Whisk until frothy

Pour into water, or your choice of milk.

Matcha is an innovative and sophisticated tea that combines the rich, creamy umami notes of traditional Japanese matcha with the bright, floral, and slightly earthy flavors of Kenyan green tea. This dynamic blend brings together two distinct tea cultures, resulting in a harmonious fusion that offers a smooth, vegetal sweetness with a vibrant, aromatic finish.

Key Characteristics:

Japanese Matcha Influence:

• Flavor Profile: Traditional Japanese matcha is known for its deep, umami-rich flavor with vegetal notes. The powder is made from finely ground green tea leaves that are shade-grown, which enhances the chlorophyll content and creates a smooth, creamy sweetness with hints of grass, seaweed, and a touch of bitterness.
• Aromatic Complexity: The fragrance of matcha is often described as fresh, green, and grassy, with a sweet, marine-like undertone. The tea’s color is a vibrant green, reflecting its nutrient-rich, high-quality leaves.
• Smooth & Creamy Texture: Matcha is known for its luxurious texture, which comes from the finely milled powder. When prepared properly, it creates a frothy, velvety drink that coats the palate with its rich, vegetal flavor.

Kenyan Green Tea Influence:

• Flavor Profile: Kenyan green tea is bright and refreshing, with a slightly sweet, floral character and a touch of astringency. The high-altitude growing conditions in Kenya contribute to a more robust, vibrant tea compared to other green teas, with undertones of fresh herbs, citrus, and sometimes a subtle earthy finish.
• Aromatic Complexity: Kenyan green tea has a fragrant aroma, often with hints of citrus zest and a lively, floral scent that makes it both refreshing and uplifting.
• Earthy & Bold: Though more delicate than black tea, Kenyan green tea still carries a slightly bold flavor, offering a balance of sweet freshness and a light, herbaceous finish.

Flavor Profile:

• Smooth & Umami-rich: The Japanese matcha base imparts a deep, creamy umami flavor with grassy and slightly seaweed-like notes, complemented by the smooth sweetness of the Kenyan green tea. The combination of both teas creates a perfect balance of rich, savory elements with light, refreshing undertones.
• Floral & Bright: The Kenyan green tea adds a floral, citrusy burst to the blend, which contrasts with the creamy matcha, creating a fresh and lively mouthfeel. The slight astringency of the Kenyan tea rounds out the profile, adding a complexity that is both satisfying and invigorating.
• Mellow Sweetness: The blend retains a natural sweetness that is neither overpowering nor too sharp. The vegetal sweetness of matcha blends seamlessly with the subtle honey-like notes from the Kenyan green tea.

Brewing Tips:

• Water Temperature: Use water at the temperatures 175°F (80°C) for the perfect brew. Water that is too hot can scorch the delicate green tea, causing bitterness. A lower temperature helps preserve the smooth, umami qualities of the matcha and the bright freshness of the Kenyan tea.
• Whisking matcha involves sifting the powdered tea into a bowl to remove any clumps, then adding a small amount of hot water. Using a bamboo whisk (chasen), gently whisk the matcha back and forth until the tea becomes frothy and smooth, with no visible clumps. The goal is to achieve a velvety texture with a light foam on top, creating a smooth, vibrant drink.
• Preparation Method: If you are preparing the blend as a matcha latte, use a bit of frothed milk to enhance the creamy texture, or serve it traditionally with water for a lighter, more authentic experience.

Health Benefits:

• Antioxidant-rich: Both matcha and Kenyan green tea are rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins, which help fight oxidative stress and promote overall health. Matcha, in particular, offers a higher concentration of antioxidants due to its whole-leaf consumption.
• Boosts Metabolism & Focus: The natural caffeine in both teas offers a mild but sustained energy boost. Matcha also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and focus, providing a calm, alert feeling.
• Digestive Aid: Kenyan green tea, like other green teas, is believed to support healthy digestion and metabolism. The combination of both teas can help maintain digestive balance and provide a gentle detoxifying effect.
• Rich in Nutrients: Matcha is particularly high in chlorophyll, fiber, and vitamins A, C, and K, offering numerous health benefits, including supporting skin health and boosting immunity.

Serving Suggestions:

• Plain or with Sweetener: This blend is excellent on its own to experience the full range of flavors. Alternatively, you can add a touch of honey or a sweetener of your choice to enhance the natural sweetness of the tea.
• Matcha Latte: For a creamy version, whisk the matcha and Kenyan green tea blend with milk (dairy or plant-based). This makes for a smooth, comforting beverage, ideal for colder weather or as a mid-day treat.
• Iced or Hot: Whether you enjoy it hot for a cozy, grounding experience or iced for a refreshing, invigorating drink on warm days, this tea offers versatility for any occasion.

Why Matcha?

This unique blend of Japanese matcha and Kenyan green tea is perfect for those who enjoy the rich, umami qualities of traditional matcha but are seeking a more vibrant and complex flavor profile. The addition of Kenyan green tea adds brightness and floral notes, creating a balanced, refreshing cup that appeals to both matcha enthusiasts and those looking for a more dynamic green tea experience. Whether you prefer it hot, iced, or as a latte, this fusion tea offers a sophisticated and energizing beverage for any time of day.