Imperial Grade Matcha: The Purest, Most Luxurious Matcha You Can Buy
What if we told you there’s a matcha so rare, so meticulously crafted, that it’s considered the gold standard of green tea? Meet Imperial Grade Matcha – the pinnacle of matcha perfection – priced at an astonishing $2,000 per kilogram.
Is it worth the investment? Let’s dive into what sets this matcha apart and why it’s considered one of the finest in the world.
What Is Imperial Grade Matcha?
Imperial Grade Matcha is a highly exclusive, first-harvest green tea powder made from the youngest, most tender leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It is considered an exceptional subset of ceremonial-grade matcha, offering an unmatched experience in flavour, texture, and quality.
Known for its silky texture, naturally sweet flavour, and vibrant green colour, Imperial Grade Matcha redefines the highest standards of ceremonial matcha.
The Art of Matcha: Understanding Its Grades
Matcha is a world of its own. Its price, quality, and overall experience are largely determined by its grade, which significantly influences the taste, texture, and intended use of the tea. Here's a deeper look into the different grades of matcha:
Ceremonial Grade
The highest quality matcha, made from the youngest tea leaves, offering a smooth, umami-rich experience. Best enjoyed traditionally, whisked with water.
Premium Grade
A step below ceremonial, this matcha is perfect for daily lattes and smoothies, offering a well-balanced flavour.
Culinary Grade
A more affordable option, ideal for baking and cooking, with a slightly bitter edge.
Differences in Matcha Grades
| Feature | Ceremonial Grade | Premium Grade | Culinary Grade |
| Leaf Quality | The youngest, most tender leaves from the first harvest | Younger leaves, but slightly older than ceremonial | Mature leaves from later harvests |
| Colour | Vibrant, deep green | Lighter green | Duller, yellowish-green |
| Texture | Ultra-fine, silky smooth | Fine, soft | Coarse, slightly gritty |
| Flavour | Rich umami, naturally sweet, no bitterness | Well-balanced, mild umami, slightly sweet | Slightly bitter, earthy |
| Best Use | Traditional tea ceremonies, premium sipping | Lattes, smoothies, daily drinking | Cooking, baking, smoothies |
| Taste Profile | Smooth, full-bodied, clean | Balanced, mild, versatile |
Bold, slightly astringent, robust
|
For a detailed breakdown of matcha grades, read our blog: “The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Matcha Grades.”
What Makes Imperial Grade Matcha Worth $2,000 Per Kilogram?
1. Exceptionally Rare and Limited in Supply
This matcha is grown in a pure, natural environment and harvested in micro-batches, with only 100 kilograms produced each year. Its rare and exclusive nature comes from the pristine surroundings, which are clean, untouched, and free from pollution or human interference. This ensures its purity at every stage of production.
As a limited edition, it stands out as one of the most sought-after matcha varieties in the world.
2. A Masterful Cultivation Process
First Flush Leaves: Only the youngest, most delicate leaves are handpicked during the first harvest for unmatched flavour and aroma. If you want to learn more about matcha harvest, check out our blog “Matcha Harvests Explained: Differences Between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Flush.”
Traditional Shade-Growing Process: For 30-35 days, the tea plants are covered with bamboo screens to increase their chlorophyll and amino acid content. This process enhances the tea’s umami richness and contributes to its deep green hue.
Handpicked and Stone-Ground: Traditional granite stone mills grind the leaves into an ultra-fine powder, a process so meticulous that it takes an hour to produce just 20 grams.
3. Unparalleled Taste & Texture
Imperial Grade Matcha delivers an extraordinarily smooth and creamy texture, with an umami profile that lingers on the palate. There’s minimal bitterness – just a perfect balance of natural sweetness and depth, achieved through generations of tea craftsmanship.
The Wellness Benefits of Imperial Matcha
Beyond its luxurious taste, this matcha is packed with powerful health benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants – Contains high levels of EGCG, known for its ability to fight free radicals and support overall health.
- Enhances Focus & Energy – A sustained energy boost without jitters, thanks to the natural combination of caffeine and L-theanine.
- Supports Detoxification – High chlorophyll content aids in removing toxins from the body.
- Promotes Radiant Skin – Antioxidants help protect against premature ageing and support healthy, glowing skin.
Where to Buy Authentic Imperial Grade Matcha
When shopping for Imperial Grade Matcha, look for:
- A vibrant, emerald-green colour (avoid dull or yellowish shades).
- A fresh, grassy aroma with no fishy or bitter smell.
- A fine, silky powder texture (no grittiness).
- Authentic Japanese sourcing from regions like Uji or Yame.
FAQs and Tips
How do I properly prepare Imperial Grade Matcha?
- Sift 1-2 grams of matcha into a bowl to remove clumps.
- Add about 70-80ml of hot water (not boiling, around 175°F/80°C).
- Whisk in a zigzag motion with a bamboo whisk until a frothy layer forms. Learn the best techniques in “How to Whisk Matcha Like a Pro.”
- Enjoy immediately for the freshest taste.
How should I store Imperial Grade Matcha?
- Keep it in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture.
- Store it in the fridge if possible to maintain freshness.
- Avoid exposure to air, as oxidation can degrade its colour and flavour.
Check out “Top Tips for Storing Matcha Right and Fresh” for essential matcha storage tips.
Can I use Imperial Grade Matcha for lattes?
Yes! While it’s best enjoyed traditionally, its smooth, sweet profile makes it an excellent choice for matcha lattes. Use less sweetener to appreciate its natural umami.
