Brew Academy: What Is Matcha?
Introduction
Matcha has become one of the fastest-growing tea categories in the world, but many people are surprised to learn that it is very different from traditional tea.
Unlike regular tea, where leaves are steeped and discarded, matcha is made from finely ground green tea leaves. Because you consume the entire leaf, matcha delivers a rich flavor, vibrant color, and a unique tea experience that has been enjoyed in Japan for centuries.
What Makes Matcha Different?
Traditional tea is prepared by steeping leaves in hot water and then removing them before drinking.
With matcha, the leaves are carefully grown, harvested, and stone-milled into an ultra-fine powder. The powder is whisked directly into water, meaning you consume the entire tea leaf.
This creates a fuller flavor and a completely different drinking experience than traditional steeped tea.
Why Matcha Has Become So Popular
Many tea drinkers appreciate matcha for its:
- Smooth, creamy texture
- Vibrant green color
- Rich, complex flavor
- Traditional preparation ritual
- Versatility in tea, lattes, smoothies, and recipes
Matcha has become a favorite among tea enthusiasts looking for a refined and enjoyable daily beverage.
What Does Ceremonial Grade Mean?
Matcha is commonly categorized into different quality levels, with ceremonial grade representing the highest quality matcha intended for traditional preparation and enjoyment on its own.
Ceremonial-grade matcha is typically:
- Made from carefully selected young tea leaves
- Harvested during the spring season
- Stone-milled into an ultra-fine powder
- Naturally vibrant green in color
- Smooth and balanced in flavor
- Lower in bitterness than lower-grade matcha
Because ceremonial-grade matcha is crafted to be enjoyed without sweeteners or additives, quality and flavor are especially important.
Why We Chose Ceremonial Grade
Moonlit Matcha is sourced from the renowned Matsushita Tea Garden in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka, Japan.
Harvested in spring from a blend of Saemidori and Tsuyuhikari cultivars, it is traditionally stone-milled into an ultra-fine powder that delivers:
- Smooth texture
- Creamy body
- Buttery umami
- Natural sweetness
- Clean lingering finish
We selected a ceremonial-grade matcha because we wanted to offer an authentic matcha experience that can be enjoyed in its traditional form.
Meet Moonlit Matcha
Moonlit Matcha is our ceremonial-grade matcha sourced from the renowned Matsushita Tea Garden in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka, Japan.
Harvested in spring from a blend of Saemidori and Tsuyuhikari cultivars, it is traditionally stone-milled into an ultra-fine emerald-green powder.
This careful process helps create a cup that is:
- Smooth
- Creamy
- Buttery
- Naturally sweet
- Rich in umami character
The result is a refined matcha designed for traditional preparation and mindful daily rituals.
Flavor Profile
Moonlit Matcha — Tasting Notes
- Smooth body
- Creamy texture
- Buttery umami
- Gentle natural sweetness
- Clean lingering finish
Unlike lower-quality matcha that can taste bitter or harsh, ceremonial-grade matcha is crafted to be enjoyed on its own.
How To Prepare Moonlit Matcha
Servings: Approximately 28 servings per package
Water Temperature: 175°F
Preparation
- Add matcha to a bowl.
- Add hot water (175°F).
- Whisk until smooth and frothy.
- Enjoy.
A Tradition Worth Exploring
Whether you're new to tea or an experienced tea drinker, matcha offers a unique experience rooted in centuries of Japanese tea culture.
Its vibrant color, smooth texture, and distinctive flavor make it one of the world's most celebrated teas.
Try Moonlit Matcha
Ready to experience ceremonial-grade matcha for yourself?
Moonlit Matcha is available now at GraveShiftCoffeeAndTea.com.