About Matcha

Matcha - a word that has been closely associated with tea culture in Japan for centuries and has experienced a remarkable renaissance in the West in recent years. Originating from the Heian period, matcha has become an integral part of the Japanese tea ceremony and is now regarded as a symbol of purity and mindfulness.

Matcha is extracted from specially cultivated green tea plants in a complex process. Before being harvested, the tea leaves spend around three weeks in the shade, which increases the chlorophyll content and intensifies the flavor. This method, known as "ooishita", gives the leaves their deep green hue and a mild, umami flavor.

After harvesting, the leaves undergo several processing steps. First, they are steamed to stop oxidation. They are then placed in the kilns, traditional ovens, and then the leaves are ground into a fine powder. The tea remains as "tencha" before it is finally pulverized into matcha - a process that takes hours of slow grinding with granite mills. Great care is taken to preserve the fine consistency and rich color tones of the matcha.

The name "matcha" itself refers to its use: "ma" stands for "pulverized" and "cha" means tea. The consumption of matcha differs significantly from other teas, as the entire leaf is consumed. This leads to a higher concentration of antioxidants and nutrients. Matcha contains a remarkable amount of L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes the production of alpha waves in the brain and therefore has both a calming and concentration-enhancing effect. At the same time, it is known for its relatively high caffeine content, providing a gentle but lasting energy boost.

The classic way to enjoy matcha is the Japanese tea ceremony - the "Cha-no-Yu". Here, matcha is whisked with hot but not boiling water (around 70 to 80 degrees Celsius) using a special bamboo whisk, the "chasen". In a harmonious movement, a soft creamy cap and an attractive marbling pattern are created on the surface.

The enthusiasm for matcha has now taken on global proportions, opening up a creative spectrum of possible applications. From the classic tea ceremony to a wide variety of drinks and culinary creations such as matcha ice cream or pastries - its versatility knows almost no bounds.

Just as admirable is the cultural legacy that surrounds matcha: a history rooted in meditation, mindfulness and the pursuit of harmony and balance. Reaching for a bowl of matcha thus becomes a moment of inner reflection, an act of calm in the fast pace of everyday life. In essence, Matcha combines the simplicity of Japanese aesthetics with the richness of centuries of tradition.