What are matcha tea grades?
Matcha tea grades refer to the quality and intended use of the tea. The three main grades are:
- Ceremonial Grade: Highest quality, made from young, shade-grown leaves; best for drinking plain.
- Supreme Grade: High-quality and versatile; ideal for lattes and daily use.
- Culinary Grade: Stronger flavor and more affordable; best for cooking and baking.
Each grade differs in color, taste, and texture based on harvest time and processing methods.
Matcha green tea powder has grown into a global favorite, known for its vibrant color, earthy flavor, and exceptional health benefits. But not all matcha is created equal. From traditional tea ceremonies to baked goods, different grades of matcha serve different purposes.
In this guide, we’ll explore the three primary grades of matcha tea—ceremonial, supreme, and culinary—and help you decide which one is right for your lifestyle. Plus, we’re sharing a refreshing non-dairy Supreme Matcha Green Tea Latte recipe using our premium-grade powder from Divine Organic Ingredients.
🍵 Ceremonial Grade Matcha: The Gold Standard
Ceremonial grade matcha is the highest quality available. Made from the youngest, most tender leaves of the first harvest, this tea is shade-grown for several weeks to enhance chlorophyll and amino acid content. The result? A stunning bright green powder with a smooth, naturally sweet flavor and little to no bitterness.
Traditional stone mills are used to finely grind the leaves, preserving their delicate taste and nutrients.
Flavor Profile: Smooth, vibrant, and subtly sweet with rich umami notes.
Best For: Traditional matcha preparation, sipping solo, or premium lattes.
Common Uses:
- Japanese tea ceremonies
- High-end matcha lattes
- Smoothies and wellness elixirs
🌿 Supreme Grade Matcha: High Quality, Everyday Versatility
Supreme grade matcha—like our Divine Supreme Matcha Powder—is also derived from first-harvest leaves but may come from slightly older plants or be shaded for a shorter period. The result is a high-quality, vibrant green powder that delivers a balanced combination of sweetness, umami, and subtle bitterness.
While not quite as delicate as ceremonial grade, supreme matcha is ideal for daily use in a variety of recipes, offering great flavor and value.
Flavor Profile: Balanced, slightly grassy, with smooth umami and a soft bite.
Best For: Everyday lattes, smoothies, and light baking.
Common Uses:
- Matcha lattes (hot or iced)
- Smoothies and bowls
- Light matcha baking (cookies, muffins)
🧁 Culinary Grade Matcha: Bold Flavor for Cooking & Baking
Culinary matcha is harvested later in the season, using leaves from the lower parts of the tea plant. These leaves offer a deeper, more robust flavor with a touch more bitterness—ideal for standing up to other ingredients in recipes.
It’s also more budget-friendly, making it a favorite for matcha enthusiasts who love to cook and experiment.
Flavor Profile: Strong, slightly bitter, and earthy.
Best For: Recipes where matcha needs to shine through.
Common Uses:
- Baked goods: cakes, muffins, cookies
- Matcha desserts: ice cream, puddings, frostings
- Savory dishes: sauces, noodles, and salad dressings
🌱 Dairy-Free Supreme Matcha Green Tea Latte Recipe
Want to try our Supreme Matcha in a creamy, delicious drink? Here’s our go-to non-dairy matcha latte recipe using simple ingredients and plant-based milk.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp Divine Organic Ingredients Supreme Matcha
- 2 oz hot water (175–185°F)
- 8 oz oat or almond milk
- 1 tbsp sweetener of choice (optional)
- Ice (optional, for iced version)
Instructions:
- Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl to remove lumps.
- Add hot water and whisk until smooth and frothy using a bamboo whisk or electric frother.
- Heat the milk in a saucepan (or froth it for a creamier texture).
- Pour the milk into a mug or glass, then add the whisked matcha.
- Stir in sweetener if desired. For an iced latte, pour over ice and stir well.
Pro Tip: Try it with oat milk and a splash of maple syrup for a cozy, naturally sweet treat.
🍃 So, Which Matcha Is Right for You?
Choose ceremonial grade for the most refined taste and traditional experience.
Choose supreme grade (like ours!) for high-quality daily rituals with smooth flavor and versatility.
Choose culinary grade for bold, cost-effective flavor in your favorite matcha recipes.
Whatever your preference, matcha is more than a drink—it’s a nourishing ritual that supports focus, energy, and antioxidant-rich living.
🌸 Explore Supreme Matcha at Divine Ingredients
Ready to begin your matcha journey? Try our organic Supreme Grade Matcha Powder and discover the difference. Whether you're whisking a mindful morning cup or crafting a green tea dessert, our matcha brings tradition, wellness, and flavor to every moment.