Matcha from A to Z. What is this tea, what does it taste like and why is it worth drinking?

2025-04-11

If you’re a fan of tea or yerba mate and are looking for new flavours and natural ways to support your body, matcha tea might be just the thing for you. This intensely green powder is much more than just a trendy addition to Instagram-worthy lattes. In this blog post, we will explain what matcha actually is, what health benefits it offers, how to brew and store it properly, and how it differs from yerba mate. Ready for a journey into the world of unique green powdered tea?

Summary:

What is matcha – powdered green tea with tradition
Matcha tea and its properties. Why is it worth drinking?
Types of matcha tea – ceremonial, daily and culinary. Which to choose?
How to brew matcha and what does it taste like?
Matcha vs. yerba mate, coffee and energy drinks. What to choose?

What is matcha – powdered green tea with tradition

Matcha is a unique variety of green tea with a history dating back to the 12th century. Although it is now most associated with Japan, its origins lie in China, where Buddhist monks were the first to dry tea leaves and grind them into a fine powder. This form of tea was easier to use during meditation. It helped promote focus and provided energy. Over time, this tradition made its way to Japan, where it gained new significance – not just as a way to consume tea, but as a spiritual practice. In Japan, drinking matcha was elevated to the level of a ceremony – chanoyu – the art of tea preparation and consumption, which continues to this day.

What sets matcha apart from other types of green teas is its special cultivation and production process. Around three weeks before harvest, tea bushes are shaded using special bamboo mats. Reduced light exposure causes the leaves to produce more chlorophyll and amino acids – particularly valuable L-theanine. As a result, the leaves turn a vibrant green, and their flavour develops a rich umami taste, unlike any other.

After harvest, the leaves are carefully selected, steamed (to prevent fermentation), dried, and then very slowly ground using traditional stone mills into a silky green powder – this is how powdered matcha tea is made. It's worth noting that only the finest parts of tea leaves (known as tencha) are used for matcha production – without stems or veins – which greatly affects the quality of the final product.

Thanks to this process, drinking matcha means not just consuming an infusion – but ingesting the whole plant, with all its active nutrients. This makes green matcha tea a kind of “essence of greenness” – a concentrated source of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that support brain function and overall health.

Another bonus of this type of tea is that its form – powdered matcha tea – allows for exceptionally wide culinary use. Not only can it be enjoyed as a classic tea, but also added to smoothies, ice cream, baked goods, pasta and even savoury dishes. Today, matcha has earned the label of a superfood – a product with exceptionally high nutritional density.

📌 Matcha – what should you remember?

Matcha is powdered green tea, originating from Japan, made from young tea plant leaves (Latin: Camellia sinensis).
Tea bushes intended for matcha are shaded before harvest – this increases chlorophyll and L-theanine content.
Only the best parts of tea leaves (tencha) are used for production, which are ground on stone mills after drying.
Matcha has wide culinary uses – not only as an infusion but also as an ingredient in many desserts and dishes. Its high antioxidant and nutrient content places it among the healthiest drinks in the world.

Matcha tea and its properties. Why is it worth drinking

Green matcha tea is a true superhero in the world of natural drinks. Thanks to its unique production process – in which we consume the entire powdered leaf instead of just an extract – matcha provides significantly more valuable nutrients than traditional brewed tea. It’s no wonder it’s called “green energy in powder form”.

Compared to classic green tea, matcha contains up to 10 times more antioxidants, including very powerful compounds from the catechin group, such as EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). Scientific studies have shown this compound to have antioxidant properties and potentially support metabolism.

Matcha is more than just “healthy tea”. According to some studies and consumer reports, it may positively impact mood and focus levels.

🌿 The most important health benefits of matcha tea:

May have antioxidant effects – helps protect cells from oxidative stress; some sources also mention its potential detoxifying effects.
Supports brain function – thanks to the synergy between caffeine and L-theanine, it improves concentration, memory and alertness, without causing irritability.
Regulates metabolism – may help burn fat and contribute to weight loss.
Promotes cardiovascular health – studies have shown an impact on LDL cholesterol and improved circulation.
Supports healthy blood sugar levels – some research suggests it may help those aiming for stable glycaemia.
Boosts mood – L-theanine has been identified in studies as a compound that supports relaxation, and in combination with caffeine may improve mental focus.

It’s worth noting that the caffeine in matcha works differently than the caffeine in coffee. Due to the presence of L-theanine, its effect is more gentle, prolonged and free of the energy spikes and crashes commonly experienced with coffee. That’s why more and more people are replacing their morning coffee with a cup of matcha – for smooth, sustained stimulation and better focus throughout the day.

Some scientific studies also point to the anti-cancer potential of compounds found in matcha and their possible role in reducing inflammation. Therefore, drinking matcha regularly can be not only a pleasant ritual, but also a beneficial addition to your daily health routine, especially when included as part of a varied and balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. However, it’s important to remember that – as with any plant-based product with intensive effects – moderation is key.

While matcha tea is generally considered safe and beneficial, there are some contraindications to be aware of:

❌ Pregnant and breastfeeding women – due to its caffeine content, consumption should be limited or consulted with a doctor ahead of time.
❌ People with anaemia – catechins in tea may inhibit iron absorption from food, especially problematic in cases of deficiency.
❌ Liver issues – very large quantities of green tea extracts may burden the liver, although drinking matcha in moderate amounts is typically safe.
❌ Sensitivity to caffeine – individuals who are less tolerant to caffeine should be cautious, as matcha may cause insomnia or irritability similar to coffee, although its effect is usually milder.

If you have any doubts or chronic conditions, it's best to consult with a doctor before introducing matcha into your daily diet. Remember – even the healthiest foods should be consumed sensibly!

Despite a few cautions, for the vast majority of people matcha tea can be an excellent daily tool for supporting health and wellbeing. Its properties make it a valid alternative to other caffeinated drinks, while also providing your body with many valuable nutrients. Below we recap the main reasons you should consider regular consumption of matcha!

✅ Why is it worth drinking matcha regularly?

✔️ It’s a natural source of energy and focus – helps maintain concentration and provides gentle energy without spikes and crashes.
✔️ Supports heart, brain and metabolism – even one cup a day can be a great addition to your daily ritual.
✔️ High in antioxidants – natural protection for cells against stress and ageing.
✔️ Ideal as a coffee or yerba mate alternative, and a versatile culinary ingredient.

If you haven’t tried matcha yet – it’s worth giving it a go. Various grades of this tea are available on the market – from ceremonial and culinary to everyday drinking versions. Each differs in flavour, colour, use and method of preparation. What types of matcha are there and which one should you choose to start? You’ll find all the details in the next section of the article. And if you want to explore our range now, take a look at the Matcha category in our shop!

Types of matcha tea – ceremonial, daily and culinary. Which to choose?

Not all matcha is created equal – and although all kinds of matcha come from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis tea plant, the differences in quality, flavour, colour and intended use are significant. Depending on how and for what purpose you plan to use your matcha tea, you can choose a different category – from premium ceremonial grade for special occasions, to versatile daily drinking matcha, all the way to culinary matcha perfect for kitchen creations.

Below we present three basic matcha grades – discover them and choose the one that best suits your lifestyle and expectations.

Ceremonial matcha – premium quality for the Japanese ritual

Ceremonial matcha is the highest quality variety, used in the traditional Japanese tea ceremony – chanoyu. It’s made from the most delicate, young leaves from the very top of the tea bush, picked by hand in early spring. As a result, it has an exceptionally mild taste, a vivid green colour and a smooth, creamy texture when prepared.

It is characterised by:

✔ the most intense aroma and colour – bright, vibrant green, indicating high chlorophyll content,
✔ mild, balanced umami flavour – virtually no bitterness,
✔ extremely fine grind – resembles silky green powder,
✔ perfect texture for classic whisk-and-water preparation, no additives needed.

👉 Who is it for? For those who value top quality, authenticity and wish to celebrate the ritual of drinking matcha in a way close to Japanese tradition. Also ideal as a gift for a tea lover.

Daily matcha (traditional) – for everyday enjoyment

Daily matcha, also known as traditional, is designed for regular consumption. It is also made from high-quality leaves, although not necessarily just the top buds and not always from the first harvest. Its colour may be slightly less vibrant than ceremonial grade matcha, with a flavour that is subtly more grassy and dry.

This grade is most often chosen by those who want to begin their matcha journey and are looking for good quality at an accessible price. If you’re wondering what matcha tastes like, this is an excellent place to start.

Characteristics:

✔ mild bitterness balanced by umami – slightly stronger taste than the ceremonial version,
✔ great for both traditional tea and matcha lattes,
✔ darker green colour – natural and enjoyable, though less vivid than premium matcha,
✔ high quality at a reasonable price.

👉 Who is it for? For fans of daily rituals with a warm drink, and for those who want to enjoy the benefits of matcha without the formalities of a tea ceremony.

Culinary matcha – creativity without limits

The third grade is culinary matcha, primarily intended as an ingredient in recipes. Made from later harvests and often from lower parts of the tea leaf, it has a darker colour, stronger taste and more noticeable bitterness. These qualities, which may be less desirable in a tea drink, are actually perfect for the kitchen – they help retain that distinctive matcha flavour even when combined with milk, fruit, sugar or heat-treated dishes.

>What to know about it:

✔ rougher grind and robust flavour – easily stands out in recipes,
✔ lower price compared to ceremonial and daily matcha,
✔ perfect for making meals and desserts: matcha lattes, ice cream, smoothies, cakes and even savoury dishes,
✔ the more ingredients, the better – culinary matcha won’t “disappear” among strong flavours.

👉 Who is it for? For cooking enthusiasts, culinary experimenters, and anyone who wants to incorporate matcha into their diet in creative ways – not necessarily in tea form.

📌 Summary – which type of matcha to choose?

Ceremonial matcha – for traditional preparation, connoisseurs, and special occasions.
Daily/traditional matcha – ideal for everyday drinking, a balance of quality and value.
Culinary matcha – for cooking, baking, smoothies and recipes any time of day.

No matter which version you go for, every matcha has its own unique properties and flavour. Match it to your lifestyle and preferred way of enjoying tea – and experience this green treasure at its best!

Matcha – how to prepare it? What does matcha taste like?

Preparing matcha is more than just making a cup of tea – for many people, it’s a calming ritual offering a moment of mindfulness, stillness, and a connection to tradition. Despite appearances, you don’t need to know Japanese tea ceremony rules – to prepare a delicious cup of matcha at home, all you need are a few simple tools and an understanding of the basic steps.

In this section, we’ll show you how to brew matcha tea step by step – both in the traditional way and a more modern version using everyday kitchen tools.

Traditional matcha tea preparation – step by step

The traditional method of preparing matcha relies on a few dedicated accessories. If you'd like to immerse yourself in the spirit of Japanese tea ceremony, it’s worth having:

chawan – a wide tea bowl,
chasen – a bamboo whisk for frothing the powder,
chashaku – a bamboo spoon for measuring tea,
furui – a sifter to remove clumps and achieve smooth texture,

All accessories needed for traditional matcha preparation can be found in our shop in the category: Tea accessories.

🍵 How to brew matcha using the traditional method?

Sift about 1-2 grams (approximately 1 teaspoon) of matcha into the chawan bowl.
Pour in 70-100 ml of hot, but not boiling, water (ideal temperature is 70-80°C).
Whisk the matcha with the chasen in an “M” or “W” motion until a light froth forms and the tea becomes smooth and creamy.
That’s it! Now you can enjoy a pure, intense infusion without additives.

Modern matcha tea preparation methods – quick and easy

If you don’t have traditional accessories, don’t worry – you can easily make matcha in a simpler way:

Use a regular mug and a fork, a small whisk or an electric milk frother.
Add matcha to a shaker or jar, pour in warm water and shake vigorously – this is a quick way to get a smooth drink.
You can also mix matcha with warm milk (dairy or plant-based) to make a popular matcha latte.

Remember that matcha dissolves in water but doesn’t steep like loose-leaf tea – so it’s crucial to mix it well to avoid clumps and release its full flavour.

What does matcha taste like?

The taste of matcha is truly unique and… it may surprise you. For many, it’s the pure essence of “green” flavour.

The best quality ceremonial matcha offers a smooth, creamy and slightly sweet taste with strong umami notes – a fifth flavour that’s difficult to compare to anything else. Its aroma is fresh and vegetal, but free from pronounced bitterness.

Traditional and culinary matcha tend to have a more dry, grassy or slightly bitter taste. That’s why they’re often served with milk (as matcha latte) or included in sweet smoothies. Bitterness in matcha is not a flaw – it’s a natural characteristic of the tea, stemming from the high content of catechins and chlorophyll.

💡 Tip: First time trying matcha? Start with a latte!

If you’re new to matcha and the taste feels a bit too intense, try making a matcha latte. Mixing it with milk and a little sweetener – like sugar, honey or maple syrup – makes the drink much more delicate and dessert-like. It’s a perfect way to ease into the world of matcha!

Just like with coffee or yerba mate – the taste of matcha is something you need to grow into and allow time to appreciate. With regular enjoyment, it becomes increasingly pleasant and… addictive, in a good way! 😊

Matcha vs. yerba mate, coffee and energy drinks – which one should you choose?

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to coffee or energy drinks, our shop offers gems such as yerba mate and matcha. Both contain natural caffeine, have stimulating properties and are rooted in centuries-old traditions. But are they truly the same? And how do they compare to a classic espresso or popular energy drinks?

Below you’ll find a comparison that will help you decide: yerba mate or matcha – or maybe... coffee? See what best fits your lifestyle, needs and taste preferences.

Matcha vs. yerba mate – tea vs. holly

Matcha and yerba mate are natural sources of caffeine (in yerba mate sometimes called mateine), but their effects and properties differ in many aspects:

Matcha vs. yerba mate

FEATURES	🍵 MATCHA	🧉 YERBA MATE
PLANT:	tea (Camellia sinensis)	Paraguayan holly (Ilex paraguariensis)
FORM:	powdered leaves	cut, coarsely ground leaves and twigs
CAFFEINE:	~30-70 mg per serving	~70-100 mg per serving* (*due to longer steeping)
EFFECT:	gentle stimulation + focus (thanks to L-theanine)	faster, stronger stimulation
TASTE:	vegetal, slightly sweet, umami	herbal, often bitter, smoky
RITUAL:	prepared in a bowl using a bamboo whisk	brewed in a calabash with a bombilla, repeatedly steeped

As you can see – although matcha and yerba mate are similar in their stimulating effects, they differ in form, cultural consumption, and nature of their action. Matcha acts more gently and lasts longer – ideal for office work, studying, or meditation. Mate tea gives a faster and more noticeable energy boost, though not as sharp or short-lived as coffee or energy drinks – perfect for mornings or active days.

How about coffee? Or an energy drink?

Compared to coffee and energy drinks, matcha performs very well – both nutritionally and culturally.

Coffee contains more caffeine (on average 80-120 mg per cup), but its effects are short-lived and may cause nervousness, rapid heartbeat, or energy crashes.
Energy drinks are often a mix of caffeine, sugar, and artificial additives – they work quickly but only briefly, can strain the liver and lead to a fast tolerance build-up.
Matcha works gently and gradually – its caffeine is balanced by L-theanine, resulting in focused alertness without overstimulation.

Additionally, by drinking matcha, you deliver not only caffeine, but also antioxidants, chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals and fibre – which you won’t find in an energy drink or black coffee.

⚖️ Quick comparison – what to choose?

Looking for gentle, long-lasting focus? ➡️ Choose matcha.
Need stronger stimulation in natural form? ➡️ Go for yerba mate.
Prefer simplicity and tradition? ➡️ Reach for coffee.
Want a quick jolt, not caring about health benefits? ➡️ Probably grab an energy drink.

In conclusion: Both matcha and yerba mate are valuable and healthy alternatives to coffee and sweetened energy drinks. The choice between them depends on your current needs – gentle concentration or strong stimulation. You can also alternate them – start your day with yerba mate and enjoy a ceremonial cup of creamy matcha in the afternoon. Sounds like the perfect plan!

If you're ready to experience the benefits of matcha for yourself, reach for the tried-and-tested products available in our shop:

👉 Mary Rose – organic matcha – high-quality organic matcha from Japan. Vivid green and delicately flavoured, perfect for daily rituals or tea ceremonies.
👉 Mary Rose – traditional matcha – a classic and versatile matcha with great flavour and a fair price. Ideal for everyday drinking, matcha lattes, smoothies and healthy recipes.

Both versions will offer you genuine green energy and help you enjoy the unique flavour and benefits of matcha every day!

Matcha – for health, flavour and harmony

Matcha is more than just tea. It’s an ancient ritual translated into modern lifestyle. Want a gentle energy boost, better focus, and more balance for your mind and body? Add matcha to your daily routine and discover how positively it can influence your overall wellbeing.

Whether you’re a fan of a morning matcha latte, or you want to try a traditional tea ceremony, one thing is certain – you’re reaching for a product with centuries of history and a wide range of health benefits supported by scientific research on its components.

Check out the full range of products available in our store:

🛒 See matcha teas available in our shop

Begin a journey full of flavour and aroma! 🍵

Sources of information:

Wikipedia: Matcha, Mate (drink), Japanese tea ceremony.
J. Kochman, K. Jakubczyk, J. Antoniewicz, H. Mruk, K. Janda, Health Benefits and Chemical Composition of Matcha Green Tea: A Review, Catechins in Human Health, 2020.
T. Koláčková, K. Kolofiková, I. Sytařová, L. Snopek, D. Sumczynski, J. Orsavová, Matcha Tea: Analysis of Nutritional Composition, Phenolics and Antioxidant Activity, Plant Foods for Human Nutrition, 2020.
D. H. Markowicz Bastos, D. Moura de Oliveira, R. Lobato, T. Matsumoto, P. de Oliveira Carvalho, M. Lima Ribeiro, Yerba maté: Pharmacological Properties, Research and Biotechnology, Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Science and Biotechnology, 2007.
C. I. Heck, E. G. De Mejia, Yerba Mate Tea (Ilex paraguariensis): A Comprehensive Review on Chemistry, Health Implications, and Technological Considerations, Journal of Food Science, 2007.