MatchaBar
Ceremonial Grade
Tasted November 2020
About MatchaBar: The company was founded by two brothers, Max and Graham Fortgang, in the year 2014 in Brooklyn, NY. I am not sure about the accuracy of this statement, but MatchaBar reports being “America’s first matcha cafe.” They have become an extremely successful nation wide company, including selling their Hustle energy drink at Whole Foods Market. MatchaBar supports the CHOOSE project that works to reduce CO2 levels in the atmosphere. MatchaBar also uses 100% recyclable containers. The companies values are community, creativity, and responsibility.
About Blend: I had trouble finding where in Japan the Ceremonial Grade matcha is from. At the time of the review, this blend was one of two available. The second blend was a Reserve Blend that is supposed to be even better than the blend reviewed here. The Ceremonial blend is available in 3 size options.
Price: $29.99 per 30 grams
Scent: Smells of fresh, bitter raspberries.
MatchaBar Ceremonial Review
Color: An electric, light green toward white on the color spectrum, indicating fair quality. Points 3.5
Foam + Texture: The frothability of this blend made me feel like a tea ceremony grandmaster. I achieved perfect, uniform, and fluffy crema with every cup. Astringent and silky texture. Points 4.75
Taste: The first flavor to hit your palate is bitterness, but the finish is long and umami rich. The umami is oceanic and algae rich. Although the bitterness is present, it is not overpowering or unpleasant. Along with umami, the finish carries a slight sweetness. Also noted are grassy and tarragon vegetal notes. Points 3.75
Final Score: 4 out of 5 points
Thoughts: Thank you MatchaBar for breaking my unfavorable streak of purchasing not so delicious matcha. This is the kind of blend that took a few sips to unfold in flavor and complexity. Although bitter, it is also dynamic, and therefore, interesting to taste and ponder. I would categorize this blend as an every day blend, however, I did drink the entire chawan without any milk additions, so if desires it will do well as a ceremonial blend as well.