The Best Matcha Tea Brands of 2023

Matcha is a finely ground, high-quality green tea originating from Japan. It’s unique for being made from the entire leaf, which results in a higher concentration of antioxidants and nutrients compared to regular green tea.

To help you choose the best matcha for your specific needs, we have meticulously tested a variety of matcha brands, from powder to tea bags to sticks, ceremonial and culinary types, and from various price ranges, to bring you the absolute best in terms of quality, intensity, flavor, and brewing convenience.

Here are the best matcha green teas on the market:

The 9 Best Matcha Green Teas

Matcha products can vary significantly. We’ve carefully tested various matcha products, and chosen the best depending on type, intended use, flavor, and price.

1. Tenzo Matcha Green Tea Powder – Best Matcha Powder Overall

The Tenzo Matcha Green Tea Powder is a reliable choice for enthusiasts searching for the best matcha powder on the market. Packed into a straightforward tin can, this product bears the classic green color and fine texture expected of high-quality matcha. It’s the best matcha green tea powder to consider for a subtle, yet distinct flavor profile.

This matcha powder offers a smooth and consistent texture, contributing to an enjoyable blending process and a final product devoid of clumps. It suggests usage of a half teaspoon per 8oz of beverage, making the 30 grams in the tin equate to around 30 servings.

The taste is a harmonious balance of robust and gentle notes, allowing it to complement rather than overpower in beverages and dishes alike. As for the aroma, it is understated yet intriguing, reminiscent of freshly picked tea leaves.

Pros

• Clear, jitter-free energy as a result of consumption.
• Smooth and fine texture, ideal for blending.
• Subtle, balanced flavor, which suits a variety of recipes.
• Simple yet functional packaging design.
• It’s organic, indicating a focus on quality and safety.
• Rich, vibrant color is typical of high-quality matcha.

Cons

• The flavor might be too mild for some.

2. The Republic of Tea Organic Full-Leaf Matcha – Best Matcha Powder for Lattes

The Republic of Tea Organic Full-Leaf Matcha is a pure and straightforward choice for those who value quality. It is a powdered matcha green tea that comes with a unique flavor profile – smooth and slightly sweet, and not overly bitter. This makes it a good option for those looking for the best matcha latte powder, as the taste blends well with hot and cold milk.

Packed in a special container with an inner envelope, the packaging ensures that the matcha retains its freshness. However, some argue that the extra packaging could be excessive. 

With its deep green color and fine texture, the product can also be deemed as one of the best matcha powders for lattes, but bear in mind that a few of your testers noted a lack of intensity in its color compared to other brands.

When it comes to value, a small quantity of this product goes a long way. Despite its perceived high price point, the longevity of the product makes it an investment for those who consume matcha regularly.

Pros

• Smooth and subtly sweet flavor profile.
• Ideal as a matcha latte powder.
• Efficient packaging maintains freshness.
• The fine texture makes it versatile.
• Organic and pure matcha powder.
• Provides a caffeine boost without the jitters.

Cons

• The price point might seem high initially.
• Extra packaging could be viewed as excessive.
• The color might be less vibrant than some other brands.
• The flavor might be considered weak by some matcha enthusiasts.

3. Art of Tea Ceremonial Grade Matcha Tin – Best Ceremonial Grade Matcha

The Art of Tea Ceremonial Grade Matcha Tin, a well-regarded representation of the best ceremonial grade matcha, contains 40g of high-quality powdered tea. The characteristic brightness of its green hue is indicative of the use of young tea leaves, which are not given time to oxidize. This trait, along with the powder’s ultra-fine texture, sets it apart as a top-tier choice for tea lovers.

The aroma of this matcha evokes a light, grassy scent, inviting and soothing, while its taste provides a refreshing experience, light on the palate and devoid of the bitterness found in lower-grade varieties. However, it is crucial to measure the proportion of powder to water accurately, with the suggested ratio being one teaspoon of powder to 8 ounces of water, to enjoy its unique flavor profile fully.

This best ceremonial matcha is securely sealed within a foil/silver-coated plastic bag and then nestled in an aluminum tin – a packaging solution that not only preserves freshness but also allows for easy storage. Despite the tin’s relatively small size, it offers numerous servings of this premium matcha tea. Unlike its culinary counterpart, this ceremonial matcha is meant to be sipped traditionally after whisking with water, rather than used in cooking or baking.

Pros

• High-quality, best ceremonial grade matcha.
• Pleasant, light, grassy aroma.
• Refreshing taste without the typical bitterness.
• Fine powder texture and vibrant green color signify its quality.
• Well-sealed packaging preserves freshness.
• Compact tin for convenient storage.
• Ideal for traditional tea-drinking practices.

Cons

• Higher price point compared to other matcha products.

4. Vahdam Pure Matcha Green Tea Powder – Best Culinary Matcha Powder

Vahdam Pure Matcha Green Tea Powder is a unique blend offering a rich and refreshing experience to tea lovers. 

This best culinary matcha powder has a delightful aroma and a beautifully deep, vibrant green color embodying freshness. 

The taste profile comprises a perfect balance of grassy notes and natural sweetness, making it ideal for a variety of culinary creations as well as a standalone beverage.

Packaged as loose powder in a sturdy, easy-to-use, and resealable zip-lock bag, the packaging ensures freshness and consistency in every serving. The packaging is temperature insulated, ensuring that the quality of the matcha is preserved during transit.

Whether used in baking, smoothies, lattes, or traditional tea, this matcha powder tastes great.

Pros

• Rich, authentic matcha flavor.
• Easy-to-use, resealable packaging.
• Versatile for culinary uses.
• High-quality consistency.
• Boosts energy.
• No clumping when blended.
• Preserves freshness.

Cons

• It may be perceived as too expensive for culinary matcha.
• May not dissolve well in milk.
• For use in tea, it’s better to choose other options.

5. MatchaDNA Organic Matcha Teabags – Best Matcha Tea Bags

The MatchaDNA Organic Matcha Teabags contains high-quality matcha packed into convenient tea bags. 

Each pack contains a hundred tea bags, ensuring you have an ample supply of this beneficial beverage. These are among the best matcha tea bags in the market. 

One of the main highlights of this product is the authenticity and organic certification, guaranteeing the use of pure, unadulterated matcha in each tea bag. 

The packaging ensures freshness and is easy to open, making it suitable for on-the-go use. 

The tea itself has a distinctive green hue, signifying its quality. The aroma is rich, invoking a feeling of tranquillity. The flavor is mild and smooth compared to other matcha tea bags, making it a hit among those who prefer a softer taste. 

If you’re looking for a matcha tea bag that combines convenience, taste, and quality, MatchaDNA Organic Matcha Teabags is the ideal choice.

Pros

• Contains 100 tea bags per pack, providing good value for the money.
• Convenient packaging makes it easy to carry and use.
• Mild and smooth flavor compared to other matcha tea bags.
• Organic certification ensures high quality.
• Versatile usage – can be used for making hot tea, iced tea, or matcha lattes.

Cons

• The flavor might be too mild for those who prefer a strong matcha taste.

6. Pique Sun Goddess Matcha – Best Matcha Sticks

The Pique Sun Goddess Matcha is a type of ceremonial-grade matcha tea that comes in the form of convenient matcha sticks, each designed for a single serving. 

This product is known for its unique, vibrant green color, which is a sign of high-quality matcha. 

The taste is a mixture of slightly sweet and earthy flavors, with a mildly grassy aroma. 

The matcha sticks are easy to use and dissolve well in water without clumping, creating a smooth beverage. However, it’s worth noting that the matcha can settle at the bottom of the cup, and might require stirring. 

Overall, this is one of the best matcha sticks options in the market, despite being more expensive than many other brands.

Pros

• It’s high-quality ceremonial-grade matcha.
• The individual matcha sticks are easy to use.
• The matcha dissolves well, with no clumps.
• The taste and aroma are authentic and pleasant.
• The single-serving sticks are good for travel.

Cons

• The product is more expensive than other brands.
• The matcha can settle at the bottom of the cup.

7. Encha Organic Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder – Best Affordable Matcha Powder

Encha Organic Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder is a good matcha powder if you want to keep your budget in check. 

This green tea powder has a bright green color, and it smells sweet. The taste is strong and rich, but you won’t find it bitter. 

The powder comes in a small, easy-to-seal pouch, but remember that you’ll only get around 15 cups out of it. 

It’s easy to mix into drinks without clumping. You can enjoy the sweet, complex flavor of this best budget matcha at home, following the included instructions to make sure you get the most out of it.

Overall, this matcha is one of the best affordable matcha powders we have tried.

Pros

• Strong, non-bitter taste.
• Smells good.
• Bright green color.
• Easy to mix into drinks.
• Comes with instructions for making matcha.
• The resealable pouch keeps it fresh.

Cons

• Only enough for around 15 cups.
• Comes in a pouch, not a tin.

8. Ippodo Tea Sayaka – Best Matcha for Beginners

Ippodo Tea Sayaka is an excellent matcha option, especially for beginners who are just starting their journey into the world of matcha. 

This product comes in a tin containing 40 grams of pure, bright green matcha powder. 

Its striking green color is an indicator of its freshness and high quality, and it has an intriguing aroma, and may take some getting used to, but is ultimately enjoyable.

The taste of Ippodo Tea Sayaka matcha is a unique blend of earthy, grassy flavors with a hint of umami. It’s not overly bitter, making it a perfect starting point for those new to matcha and might not yet be used to its unique flavor profile. As the best matcha for beginners, its mild, smooth, and balanced taste provides an accessible introduction to matcha’s complex flavors.

However, this isn’t just for beginners. Even seasoned matcha lovers will enjoy its rich flavor profile, which reflects its ceremonial-grade quality.

Though the packaging may seem small at first glance, a little goes a long way. Each serving requires just 2 grams, meaning you’ll get about 20 servings from a single tin. Keep in mind that it may not dissolve as easily as other matcha brands, and it’s best enjoyed whisked, in traditional style, for an authentic matcha experience.

Pros

• High-quality, ceremonial-grade matcha.
• Bright green color indicates freshness.
• Smooth, balanced, and mildly sweet flavor.
• Suitable for both beginners and seasoned matcha drinkers.
• Convenient and reusable tin packaging.
• More affordable than other ceremonial-grade matcha brands.

Cons

• May have an unfamiliar aroma for some.
• Doesn’t dissolve easily; whisking is recommended.
• It may not provide the desired caffeine boost for some.
• Requires careful measurement for optimal flavor.
• This matcha has a pronounced grassy taste, more pronounced than other brands.

9. Harney & Sons Very Berry Matcha Tea – Best Flavored Matcha

Harney & Sons Very Berry Matcha Tea isn’t just your usual cup of matcha. This blend combines matcha with berry flavors to create a different kind of tea experience. 

The tea’s color is a vibrant green, typical of matcha. 

When you open a bag or sachet, you’ll catch the scent of berries and that familiar matcha smell.

The flavor is where this tea stands out. It’s probably one of the best-flavored matcha you’ll come across. The sweetness of berries is there, but it doesn’t overpower the matcha. Instead, they balance each other out. 

The tea comes in a bag of 50 sachets.

Pros

• Comes in easy-to-use tea bags.
• You can smell the berries.
• The taste is a good mix of berries and matcha.
• You don’t need to add sugar.
• The tea is a bright green color.
• One bag has 50 tea bags.
• You can drink it hot or cold.

Cons

• When hot, the berry flavor can be too strong for some. The combination of matcha and berries may also taste unusual to you if you haven’t tried matcha blends before.
• The matcha taste isn’t as strong as in other matcha teas.
• The texture of the tea might not be what you’re expecting.

How We Selected the Best Matcha

Our rigorous selection process is based on several factors that determine the quality and taste of matcha.

Type of Matcha

There are two types of matcha: ceremonial and culinary. 

Ceremonial grade matcha is the highest-quality matcha and is traditionally used in tea ceremonies. It has a vibrant green color and a delicate taste. 

On the other hand, culinary-grade matcha is less expensive and often used in cooking or baking. It has a stronger, more robust flavor compared to its ceremonial counterpart.

Here’s a detailed comparison of culinary grade matcha vs. ceremonial grade matcha.

Sourcing Region

The best matcha tea typically hails from Japan, particularly Uji, Kagoshima, and Shizuoka regions. The unique climate, rich soil, and traditional harvesting methods make Japanese matcha superior in taste and quality. 

However, high-quality matcha can also be found outside Japan. Brands sourcing their matcha from regions like China may also deliver a good matcha powder, even though it might differ slightly in flavor profile and texture.

Form

Matcha comes in different forms, most commonly as a powder. This form allows for versatile use, from brewing tea to incorporating it into recipes. 

Matcha tea bags provide a convenient alternative for quick brewing, while matcha sticks offer an easy way to enjoy matcha on the go. 

Each form caters to different lifestyles and preferences.

Intended Use

While ceremonial matcha is best savored as tea, culinary matcha finds its strength in being a flavor enhancer in lattes, smoothies, and baked goods. 

Knowing your intended use for matcha can guide you in choosing the best matcha powder for your needs.

Color

The color of matcha powder is a strong indicator of its quality. 

High-quality matcha presents a vibrant, rich green color, a result of careful shading techniques before harvesting. 

On the other hand, lower-quality matcha may exhibit a dull, yellowish-green hue.

Intensity and Flavoring

The taste of matcha varies between brands. Some offer a robust, full-bodied taste, while others lean toward a more delicate flavor. 

Additionally, matcha can be blended with herbs or flavored with vanilla or other additives, which may alter the original taste. 

The caffeine content also varies, with an average serving of matcha containing about as much caffeine as half a cup of black coffee.

Price

Matcha prices can fluctuate based on its type, sourcing region, and brand reputation. 

Ceremonial-grade matcha is generally more expensive than culinary-grade, due to its premium quality and traditional processing methods.

Tips for Choosing the Best Matcha Tea

Choosing the best matcha powder involves more than just picking a popular brand off the shelf, or ordering a product with the highest positive reviews online. 

Here are some insider tips to ensure you bring home a top-rated matcha powder that’s perfect for you.

• Know Your Matcha Type: If you’re going to enjoy matcha traditionally as a tea, consider choosing a ceremonial grade matcha. If your intended use is baking, smoothies, or lattes, culinary-grade matcha might be a better fit.
• Consider the Sourcing Region: The best matcha teas are generally sourced from Japan, specifically Uji, Kagoshima, and Shizuoka. However, there are also brands with matcha sourced from other regions that provide a high-quality experience.
• Check the Color: The color of the matcha powder can be a good indicator of quality. Vibrant, bright green matcha usually indicates a high-quality product, while dull or yellowish-green matcha can suggest lower quality.
• Read the Ingredients: The best matcha tea should contain 100% pure matcha. Watch out for sugars, flavorings, or other additives if you’re after the purest matcha experience. However, if you enjoy different flavors, there are good matcha powder blends available with various flavorings.
• Check the Price: The best matcha brand doesn’t have to be the most expensive one. While price can indicate quality, it’s also important to consider other factors such as taste, origin, and type of matcha.
• Read Reviews: To choose the best-tasting matcha powder, check out the reviews online to understand what other customers think of the product. Reviews can provide insight into the taste, texture, and overall quality of the matcha powder.
• Organic Is a Plus: If you’re health-conscious, look for the best organic matcha powder. Organic matcha guarantees that the tea leaves were grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you’re getting the best quality matcha tea that aligns with your preferences and needs.

FAQ

What Are the Benefits of Matcha?

Matcha, abundant in antioxidants called catechins, is recognized for its disease-fighting properties and other health benefits. It’s also filled with L-theanine, an amino acid that encourages relaxation without drowsiness. Additionally, matcha is a rich source of vitamins A, C, E, K, and B-complex, fiber, and numerous minerals.

How Much Caffeine Is in Matcha?

A typical serving of matcha (about 1 gram or 1/2 teaspoon) contains approximately 35mg of caffeine. However, the caffeine content can vary slightly depending on the brand and type of matcha.

How Much Matcha per Cup Can I Use?

Typically, one teaspoon of matcha powder is used per 2-3 ounces of water. However, you can adjust the amount to your taste and the specific brand’s instructions.

How Much Matcha Can You Drink Per Day?

While matcha is healthy, it’s best consumed in moderation due to its caffeine content. Generally, up to two cups of matcha daily is considered safe for most people. However, individual caffeine tolerance can vary.

What Does Matcha Taste Like?

High-quality, traditional matcha has a unique flavor profile that’s rich and complex. It combines a slightly sweet, vegetal taste with a hint of bitterness and umami undertones. Lower-grade matcha tends to be more bitter.

What Does Matcha Latte Taste Like?

A matcha latte typically has a creamy, slightly sweet taste, with the characteristic vegetal and mildly bitter notes of matcha. The sweetness level can be adjusted based on personal preference.

How to Make Matcha Taste Better?

If you find pure matcha too bitter, there are ways to make it taste better. Try adding a sweetener like honey or agave syrup. You can also blend matcha with milk or non-dairy alternatives to make a matcha latte, which has a creamier and milder taste.

How to Make Matcha?

Here’s a basic recipe for making traditional matcha tea:

1. Sift 1 teaspoon of matcha powder into a bowl to remove any clumps.
2. Pour 2-3 ounces of hot water (not boiling) into the bowl.
3. Use a bamboo whisk to mix the water and matcha together until it becomes frothy.
4. Add more hot water or milk as per preference, then enjoy!

Remember that different matcha brands might have specific brewing instructions, so it’s always a good idea to check the product’s label.