Matcha Tasting Guide
Matcha boasts multiple layers of flavors and textures. These flavors are not due to a single factor but are influenced by the tea variety, the region where it was grown, the soil, climate, shading period before harvest, processing method, fineness of grinding, and even the preparation method and water temperature.
Therefore, some matcha types may be smoother and sweeter, while others have a more vegetal character or a deeper umami flavor.
To better understand matcha, we rely on essential tasting elements such as umami, natural sweetness, bitterness, slight astringency, fresh vegetal flavors, and creamy texture.
Tasting Notes
1. Umami
Umami is the rich, savory depth in matcha. It gives the cup a full-bodied and smooth taste, making the flavor more balanced and rich. Umami often appears in high-quality matcha, especially when the tea leaves are carefully shaded before harvesting
2. Natural Sweetness
It's a delicate and smooth sweetness found naturally in premium matcha, without being sugary. This sweetness mellows the flavor and makes the cup more harmonious and smooth.
3. The Bitterness
Bitterness is a pungent sensation experienced on the tongue. A slight bitterness is natural in matcha, but in good matcha, it should be balanced and not unpleasant, adding depth to the flavor without overpowering it
6. The Texture
Creamy texture refers to a smooth, velvety sensation in the mouth.
When matcha is finely ground and prepared correctly, its texture becomes smoother and fuller, making the experience more elegant and comforting.
5. Vegetal Notes
These are the green notes that bring to mind young tea leaves, fresh grass, or steamed vegetables.
These notes give matcha its vibrant and refreshing character, highlighting its closeness to the original leaf.
4. Mild Dryness
It is a dry, clean feeling in the mouth after a sip, similar to the sensation left by strong green tea or grape skins.
It is different from bitterness; bitterness is tasted on the tongue, while a light dryness is a sensation inside the mouth that provides a clear and refreshing finish.