With a growing number of options for matcha tea in the market be it in offline setting or online, the numbers have risen to a new level. Between all the options it would be quite overwhelming to pick the right one! Here’s a clear guide to help you distinguish between high-quality options and those that might not meet your expectations, so you can find the perfect matcha for you.
WHY ARE MATCHAS EXPENSIVE?
Matcha price can vary from place to place, market to market, somewhere which may be due to its demand also. Other than that the reasons for these price differences include factors such as: Origin, Cultivation Techniques, Harvesting Methods, and Processing Quality. However, if you ask for the best and finest quality of Matcha, you can only find it in one place, Japan.
Yes, that’s right. One could easily find the finest quality of matcha because here the right technique and people who have enough experience are involved in the cultivation of matcha. Good tea usually needs a long shading period and more time to develop its delicate flavors, whereas cheaper teas often have minimal shading. You’ll also find clear differences in how high-priced and low-priced teas are picked and processed.
In this case, the matcha from Japan is picked by hand, sorted, and then ground slowly using big stones. Matcha produced in countries outside Japan may use different cultivation and processing methods that are less costly. This can result in lower prices but may also affect the flavor and quality.
HOW DOES MATCHA QUALITY AFFECT ITS PRICE?
Quality grades of matcha are like its wide price range. It’s not like putting prices according to one’s own will, prices are kept based on the quality of the matcha.
Factors that could affect matcha’s price primarily would be:
- How it is Cultivated
- The processing method of Matcha
- Quality Control and Checks
On another note, matcha has different grades, and based on that even prices can differ, few of them can be listed as:
- Ceremonial Grade -This is the highest quality matcha. It’s made from the youngest, most tender tea leaves. Because of this high level of care and quality, ceremonial grade matcha is the most expensive.
- Premium Grade – A Little less in terms of quality but still considered above average. It’s suitable for regular drinking and is less costly than ceremonial grade.
- Culinary Grade – This matcha holds less tender leaves, though has stronger, more bitter taste and duller color.
FINDING THE IDEAL SUPPLIER
Some years back, matcha could be found at only a few shops. But, in today’s scenario you can easily find matcha at any supermarket, drugstore or online marketplaces.
Matcha can be bought at lowest prices at nearby shops, but as I mentioned earlier how the price affects its quality, is something to keep in mind while making your decision as to where to buy it.
Therefore, when deciding as to where to purchase your matcha, check if they provide clear product details and if the price is reasonable for the quality. Check for the region where it was produced, read the ingredients mentioned since majority of the brands add other ingredients like licorice, green tea, etc to reduce the cost of the actual product.
Look for expert recommendations online to see who sells the best matcha around you.
CONCLUSION
Enjoying a cup of matcha could be a great idea but looking for its quality and grade while buying it can easily enhance your experience of having one. Try avoiding purchasing matcha from local shops as it can severely affect its quality.