How to choose matcha

Best Matcha for Lattes

Higher-priced matcha often offers more sweetness and a vibrant green color. However, for matcha lattes, the most expensive matcha is not always necessary. We recommend the following matcha because they balance price, quality, and stable availability for latte use.

YAME-MATCHA-SAEMIDORI

YAME MATCHA

YAME-MATCHA-SAEMIDORI

  • Latte-friendly
  • Rich umami
  • Nutty
  • Smooth
  • Low bitterness
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ASAHINA-NO-YUKI

MEIYO SHIZUOKA MATCHA

ASAHINA-NO-YUKI

  • Latte-friendly
  • Smooth
  • Low bitterness
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KAGURA

IZUMO MATCHA

KAGURA

  • Latte-friendly
  • Rich umami
  • Great with milk
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KAMI-WATASHI

IZUMO MATCHA

KAMI-WATASHI

  • Latte-friendly
  • Balanced
  • Everyday choice
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HOSHI-NO-TSUMUGI

TSUJIRI (Yame, Fukuoka)

HOSHI-NO-TSUMUGI

  • Latte-friendly
  • Great value
  • Easy to use
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There are many types and grades of matcha—ranging from culinary use to premium ceremonial quality.
With so many options, it can be hard to know which one to choose.

As a general rule, the higher the price, the better the taste, aroma, and vibrant green color.

Here, we’ll guide you through our recommended matcha so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

matchaquality
What to look for Good-quality matcha Poor-quality matcha
Color Bright, vibrant green Dull green, reddish or pale/whitish green
Aroma Fresh, pleasant matcha aroma Weak aroma or stale/flat smell
Umami Rich and round umami Little to no umami
Bitterness Low bitterness, smooth finish Strong bitterness and harsh aftertaste

Quick guide: If you want a smoother cup, prioritize better color + aroma, not just “ceremonial grade.”

Recommended products for drinking

For first-time buyers

Yamamasa Koyamaen

OGURAYAMA

HOSHINOEN

IKENOSHIRO

IZUMO MATCHA

KAGURA

MEIYO SHIZUOKA MATCHA

ASAHINA-NO-YUKI

HEKISUIEN

KIN-NO-UZUDAIGYOKU

ROKUBEI MATCHA

MURASAKINO

TSUJIRI MATCHA

YUTAKA-MUKASHI

These are best-sellers in the “drinking” lineup for each maker and a great starting point for tea ceremony and straight matcha.

For everyday use

Yamamasa Koyamaen

MATSUKAZESAMIDORIYOMO-NO-KAORI

HOSHINOEN

YAMENOHANAYAMENOTSUYUHOSHINOTSUYU

IZUMO MATCHA

KAGURAKAMI-WATASHI

MEIYO SHIZUOKA MATCHA

AOBANE-NO-TUKIOKABE-NO-HANA

HEKISUIEN

CHIYO-NO-SAKAEKIN-NO-UZU

TSUJIRI MATCHA

HOSHI-NO-TSUMUGI

If you want an easy everyday matcha, choose options that stay smooth even when whisked quickly. “Samidori” and “Matsukaze” are especially popular for daily enjoyment and practice.

For special occasions

Yamamasa Koyamaen

TENNOUZAN

HOSHINOEN

SEIJYU

MEIYO SHIZUOKA MATCHA

NYUFUNE-NO-KAZE

ROKUBEI MATCHA

Ichigo Ichie

For gifting or special moments, choose higher-grade matcha with deeper aroma and a longer, smoother finish.

For Those Looking for Organic Matcha

Looking for organic matcha?
We have selected an organic matcha with very low bitterness.
Choose the one that best suits how you enjoy matcha::

  • For traditional sipping: smoother, elegant umami
  • For daily use: clean taste and easy to enjoy
  • For lattes: deeper body that stands up to milk

ROKUBEI (Uji, Kyoto)

SUIUN

Best for traditional sipping. Smooth, refined umami with low bitterness.

Kagoshima Organic Matcha

ASANOKA

Best for daily use. Bright aroma and a clean finish—easy to enjoy every day.

Kagoshima Organic Matcha

OKUMIDORI

Best for lattes. Deeper body and vibrant green color—holds up well with milk.