Tag: Matcha harvest

Did you know that matcha is harvested up to four times a year, with the season significantly impacting its flavor profile and quality? Understanding the distinctions between spring and summer harvest matcha is essential for choosing the best type for your personal taste and intended use.

Over 80% of high-quality Japanese matcha is produced during the first flush, or harvest, of the year. Known in Japan as *ichibancha*, this premium tea, or 1st harvest matcha, is considered the gold standard for its exceptional flavor, vibrant color, and potent nutritional profile.

Ceremonial grade matcha can contain around 34 milligrams of caffeine per gram, while culinary grade contains less, at approximately 28 milligrams per gram. This surprising fact reveals the answer to the common question: does lower grade matcha have less caffeine? In short, yes, and the reasons lie in the plant's growth and harvest.