How to Choose the Right Matcha for You
Matcha can be a little mysterious when you’re first starting out. There are so many types, brands, and flavor notes — umami, astringency, smoothness, boldness. And if you’re anything like me when I first started, you’re probably wondering: Which one should I buy?
The good news is: there’s no one “right” matcha — just the one that fits you best.
Start With One Simple Question:
How do you like to drink your matcha?
That’s the first step to figuring out what kind of matcha works best for your taste and your routine.
1. You like it straight (Usucha)
If you love matcha whisked with just water — smooth, foamy, and sipped warm — you’re looking for a ceremonial-grade matcha with low bitterness and a rich, full umami flavor.
Look for:
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Vibrant green color
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Smooth, mellow finish
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Descriptions like “fragrant,” “silky,” or “delicate”
This kind of matcha is often more subtle — perfect for quiet moments and daily rituals.
Best fit matcha(s) for this type: Single Cultivar Okumidori , Yoshida Shouju
2. You love matcha lattes
If you’re someone who reaches for a creamy oat milk matcha every morning, you’ll want something a little bolder — a matcha that holds up in milk without getting lost.
Look for:
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Slightly stronger, more assertive flavor
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Notes of grassiness or toastiness
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Descriptions like “rich,” “bold,” or “well-balanced”
This doesn’t mean lower quality — just a different style. Some matchas actually shine in lattes.
Some great matcha(s) for your daily matcha latte cup: Sei You Sha by Atami Tea House, Itoen Koto, Itoen Hana
3. You want something versatile
If you like to switch it up — one day a latte, the next a traditional usucha — go for a balanced matcha with medium umami and mild astringency. These blends are flexible, forgiving, and great for experimenting.
Look for:
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Mid-range price
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Smooth but with a little edge
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Descriptions like “everyday,” “balanced,” or “clean”
These are often the hidden gems of any collection.
Our All-in One matcha(s): Yoshida Unryu, Ikeda Senchado – Organic Matcha
4. You’re into baking, smoothies, or mixed drinks
If matcha is your secret ingredient in cookies, cakes, or cocktails, go for culinary-grade matcha or a slightly more robust ceremonial type.
Look for:
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Earthier or slightly bitter notes (they cut through sugar and fat)
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Deep green color (even in baked goods!)
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A powder that blends easily
You don’t need to break the bank — but you still want quality to get that matcha taste in the final result.
Our reccomendations: The cheapest Japan matcha you can find! Or even anythings that you are willing to use a huge amount for baking instead of drinking them (nearly expired matcha, or when you are in vibe and want to use your high-end, luxury ceremonial grade matcha for a cheesecake... it is up to you!)
Still Not Sure?
That’s totally okay. Matcha is personal — part ritual, part flavor, part vibe. If you’re stuck between two options, try this:
Do a side-by-side taste test. Whisk a half portion of each with water. Notice the difference in texture, color, aroma, and aftertaste. The one you reach for again? That’s your matcha.
One Last Thing
All the matcha I carry at Kim’s Matcha House is sourced straight from Japan — from makers I trust and personally drink. Whether you’re looking for bold and creamy, or light and fragrant, I’ve got something for your matcha moment.
Let me know how you like to drink yours — I love helping people find their perfect match(a).