Jade Lead Matcha
Signature Ceremonial Blend
Reviewed November 2020
About Jade Leaf: Jade Leaf Matcha is part of the Kizanu Tea Collective in Kyoto, Japan. Kizanu Tea Collective has been a well established tea supplier since 1858 (that’s over 100 years!). The matcha is derived from a range of family run farms throughout Japan. In 2014, Kizanu went international by opening a headquarters in Seattle, Washington and starting the organic brand Jade Leaf Matcha. In addition to providing organic products, the brand’s goal is to provide fresh and affordable matcha. This is probably one of the best marketed matcha brands. They are very active on social media, have products across the USA, and provide beautiful informational brochures with each purchase.
About Blend: The signature Ceremonial blend comes in a multitude of size options. At the time of writing this review, it was one of two ceremonial blends, and one of several matcha blends, such as culinary and barista options. The website describes the signature blend as a “fusion of the Uji (Kyoto) region's characteristically rich, deep flavor and the Kagoshima region's light, refreshing flavor.” This was a 10g sampler.
Price: $24.95 per 30 oz
Scent: Smells of fresh buckwheat grains and young grass shoots.
Jade Lead Matcha Review
Color: Vibrant green. Points 3.5
Foam: From formed by whisking is thin to middle thickness and with some bubble variation. The blend is fairly astringent, brothy, and with a smooth texture. Points 3.75
Taste: The flavor profile is remarkably similar to Encha Ceremonial Matcha. A light brothy seaweed umami, gentle astringent bitterness reminiscent of spinach greens and chamomile flowers, and a light sweetness. Points 3
Final Score: 3.4 out of 5 points
Thoughts: After having heard so much about Jade Leaf Matcha it was really special to finally try this blend. Based on the taste tasting, this is an every day blend that goes well with milk and gives a nice energy kick post consumption. The larger sample size is greatly appreciated. Our perception of flavor varies day by day depending on the weather, our own physiology, blend freshness, and preparation methods. For these reasons tasting a blend several times will provide a more honest and well rounded review. Most matcha sample sizes are about 2 grams or a single serving, which has never been sufficient for a Grassy Notes review. If you are looking to try something thoroughly before purchasing a bigger container, this sample packet is a perfect place to start.
It has been really interesting to compare Jade Leaf Matcha to Encha Matcha. This wasn’t intentional, but a coincidence. My friend @AbbyCatArt was over my house and trying matcha for the first time. To make it a memorable experience for her we made both blends to help her use the Matcha Tasting “Wheel” and experiment with flavor comparison. When it comes to matcha tasting, comparing blends is essential to understanding flavor differences. Had we tasted Jade Lead Matcha separately from Encha Matcha we likely wouldn’t have noticed their similarities. Overall, this was a pleasant tasting experience and by Grassy Notes standards this is a recommendable blend for every day use and matcha newbies.