Are there different types of matcha, or is all powder the same?
Not only are there different types of matcha, but there are also multiple ways to categorize types of matcha tea.
In this article, we’re going to give you a clear breakdown of the different types of matcha tea.
We’ll show you why there is so much more to matcha than simply “ceremonial grade” and explore the different types of matcha green tea based on region, cultivar, and quality level.
Let’s get started.
Different Types of Matcha Explained
So there are a few different ways to categorize types of matcha tea.
A common way people distinguish different types of matcha powder is the broad culinary vs ceremonial distinction, but this barely scratches the surface of the different types of matcha available.
Like wine, matcha can also be broken down by region and cultivar or varietal.
These two factors are the main distinctions used to categorize different types of matcha tea beyond simple grade labeling and can be explored further within our Matcha Powder and Accessories Collection.
There is also a more nuanced way to categorize the quality of matcha beyond ceremonial grade, which we’ll explore next.
Quality
Matcha is divided into three categories based on quality, flavor, and intended use: culinary, latte, and ceremonial grade.
For a more detailed breakdown of how grading works in Japan, see our full guide on Matcha Grades Explained.
Culinary grade
Culinary-grade matcha is best for baking and cooking, though many people still wonder about its drinkability, a topic addressed in Can You Drink Matcha for Baking? Culinary-grade matcha has a dull yellow-green color and a strong, bitter taste designed to hold up against sugar and other ingredients.
Latte grade
Latte grade matcha is made for drinks with milk. It appears brighter than culinary grade and has a balanced vegetal flavor that still comes through in lattes without being harsh.
Ceremonial grade
The terms “culinary grade” and “ceremonial grade” don’t really have a technical definition. We like to refer to matcha meant for plain drinking as ceremonial grade, but within ceremonial grade, the matcha pros use 3 further distinctions.
Keiko matcha
The term “ceremonial grade” is derived from the Japanese tea ceremony, but tea ceremony practitioners categorize matcha based on how they use it. The first is “Keiko Matcha” and this is used for practicing the tea ceremony.
Keiko matcha would be considered extremely high quality by most people’s standards, but in the world of the tea ceremony it is only good enough to use for practice.
To understand how these distinctions developed historically, the Japanese Tea Ceremony Guide offers helpful context.
Usucha Matcha
“Usucha,” or thin tea, is prepared during regular tea ceremonies, and this is one of the different types of matcha powder. This matcha is good enough to be served to guests, but only in the more casual tea ceremony where thin tea is served.
This matcha bowl is usually prepared with 2 grams of powder and 70ml of water. Rather than being mixed into milk, it’s just whisked into water. The matcha is smooth enough to drink plain, and the foam on top creates a light and airy consistency.
Koicha Matcha
The final of the different types of matcha tea is koicha matcha. This is considered to be the highest quality of the three types of matcha used in the tea ceremony. This matcha is suitable for “koicha” or thick tea, and it is served in special tea ceremonies.
The preparation differences between thick and thin tea are discussed further in Koicha vs Usucha.
These types of matcha are prepared with 4 grams of powder and 50ml of water. This creates a thick matcha paste, and it amplifies the flavor. Even the smallest amount of bitterness will shine through, so the matcha needs to be extremely high quality.
Cultivar
Just like wine is categorized by grape variety, different types of matcha can also be categorized by cultivar.
These cultivated varieties determine everything from ideal growing conditions to nutrient composition and flavor profile.
Most matcha is made from the Yabukita cultivar, but there are also different types of matcha powder produced from more specialized cultivars such as Okumidori, featured in the Okumidori Matcha Collection, along with Saemidori and Ujihikari. Examples of this widely grown variety can be found in the Yabukita Matcha Collection.
These cultivars are more difficult to cultivate, yet they often produce sweeter, more nuanced matcha with lower bitterness and greater aromatic complexity.
Region
In addition to cultivar, types of matcha green tea can also be categorized by region.
Different regions have unique soil compositions, climates, rainfall patterns, and temperature variations. All of these environmental factors influence the final flavor of the tea.
The most famous regions for premium matcha are Yame and Uji. Because these types of matcha are widely recognized, they tend to command higher prices.
However, excellent different types of matcha tea also come from regions such as Shizuoka and Kagoshima, which offer outstanding quality with distinct regional characteristics.
Different types of matcha drinks
In addition to different types of matcha powder, there are also different types of matcha drinks.
Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy this magical green powder:
Warm Matcha Latte
A warm matcha latte is one of the most comforting types of matcha drinks, with numerous variations featured in Matcha Latte Recipes. Blending smooth steamed milk with finely whisked matcha powder. It’s a cozy way to explore the different types of matcha and how each grade tastes when prepared hot.
Iced Matcha
An iced matcha latte is a refreshing twist within the many types of matcha green tea beverages. Cold milk and vibrant matcha powder create a lightly sweet, energizing drink perfect for warm days. It’s one of the most popular types of matcha drinks, ideal for showcasing different types of matcha powder and how their flavor changes when served cold. For a step-by-step preparation guide, Iced Matcha Latte outlines the ideal ratios and techniques.
Top 5 Most Trendy Matcha Drinks
1. Lavender Matcha Latte
A calming twist on the classic matcha latte, lavender matcha combines earthy green tea with delicate floral notes. The result is a smooth, lightly aromatic drink that feels both soothing and indulgent.
2. Banana Matcha
Banana matcha blends creamy banana with the grassy freshness of matcha for a naturally sweet, smoothie-like drink. It’s popular for breakfast or post-workout thanks to its satisfying texture and gentle energy boost.
3. Dirty Matcha Latte
The dirty matcha latte adds a shot of espresso to a matcha latte, creating a bold fusion of earthy tea and roasted coffee. It’s a favorite among caffeine lovers who want extra intensity without sacrificing balance.
4. Matcha Martini
A modern cocktail classic, the matcha martini mixes ceremonial matcha with spirits like vodka or gin for a smooth, vibrant green drink. It’s elegant, slightly bitter, and perfect for evening occasions.
5. Blueberry Matcha
Blueberry matcha pairs antioxidant-rich blueberries with matcha’s vegetal depth. The fruity sweetness softens the tea’s intensity, making it a refreshing and visually striking drink. For a citrus-forward alternative, Matcha Lemonade offers a bright contrast to milk-based drinks.
