Find answers to common questions about our matcha and ordering.
Why is ceremonial-grade Japanese matcha more expensive than regular store-bought matcha?
High-quality Japanese matcha requires careful cultivation, shading, harvesting, and processing. These methods help develop its vibrant green color, smooth texture, natural sweetness, and rich umami flavor. Compared to many inexpensive matcha powders, first harvest Japanese matcha typically offers a smoother, less bitter taste and a brighter green color.
What is the difference in taste and color between ceremonial-grade and regular matcha?
Ceremonial-grade matcha is typically vibrant, bright green, with a smooth, delicate flavor, natural sweetness, and rich umami. It generally has less bitterness and a more pleasant finish, making it ideal for drinking on its own.
Regular or culinary-grade matcha often has a duller, yellowish-green or olive-green color, with a stronger, more bitter, earthy, and astringent taste. It's commonly used in lattes, smoothies, and baking, where other ingredients balance its stronger flavor.
However, color and flavor can vary depending on freshness, cultivar, and processing. Ceremonial grade is not an officially regulated Japanese classification.
How should I store matcha?
Matcha is sensitive to air, light, heat, and moisture, which can gradually affect its vibrant green color, delicate aroma, and flavor.
Before opening, store your matcha in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, we recommend keeping it tightly sealed in the refrigerator to help preserve its freshness, color, and flavor.
To prevent moisture and condensation, keep the container airtight and allow it to reach room temperature before opening it. Always use a clean, dry spoon and enjoy your matcha as soon as possible for the best experience.
When will my order ship?
Orders are prepared for shipment as promptly as possible. Available shipping options and delivery estimates are shown at checkout.
Is Matcha Ichira a trustworthy brand?
At Matcha Ichira, we believe trust is earned through transparency, authenticity, and consistent quality.
We are a Canadian-based matcha brand working with a dedicated team of trusted suppliers in Japan who source our matcha directly from tea farmers in Shizuoka and Kagoshima, two renowned tea-growing regions.
Here's what makes us different:
Direct Farmer Sourcing: Our Japanese suppliers work with tea farmers in Shizuoka and Kagoshima, helping us maintain close relationships with the origins of our matcha.
Transparent Product Information: We openly share our matcha's origin, first-harvest designation, and cultivar blend, including Okumidori, Saemidori, Saeakari, and Tsuyuhikari.
Carefully Selected Quality: Our matcha is selected for its vibrant green color, fine texture, smooth flavor, and balanced umami.
Canadian-Based Business: We operate in Canada and provide accessible customer support for questions about our products and orders.
Fair and Accessible Pricing: We aim to make premium Japanese matcha more accessible without unnecessary markups.
We want you to know what you're purchasing, where it comes from, and why we've chosen it.
Authentic Japanese matcha. Transparent sourcing. Quality you can experience in every cup.
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