Matcha Shiba - Organic Matcha from Japan

Ushucha of Matcha Shiba's Diamond Class

I am always on the quest for organic matcha, so thank you Matcha Shiba sending me both your Diamond Class and Everyday Class Matcha for tasting. For the record, I may be biased here. I have always wanted a shiba inu dog, so I smile every time I see their logo! 

Matcha Shiba is certified organic in Japan (JAS - Japanese Organic Agricultural Standard, a fairly new certifying body established in 2000) and the US (USDA). The Diamond Matcha is bright green with a very slight, but fresh, vegetal aroma. Whether I made ushucha or koicha, it whisked easily and fully. With more water I could create a lovely thick frothy creama. The koicha had a wonderful consistency. I could detect a subtle umami flavor, but it was lighter than other brands I have had of late. To me, the Diamond Class was a bit more bitter than I prefer, and that note overpowered the umami finish initially. However, a minute or two later, the bitterness faded and a pronounced sweet and savory note came forth. Still, since this was organic matcha, I am pleased by the Diamond Class overall.

Sifting the Diamond Class Matcha

It is harder for me to critique culinary grades unless an overwhelmingly bitter taste comes forth in the food or lattes. After opening the Everyday Class package, which came in a resealable bag versus the metal, vacuumed sealed tin in which I received the Diamond Class, I was struck instantly by the contrast of color. The Everyday matcha was was flatter, duller and more on the yellowish side of green. The smell was less pronounced as well. After making a latte with pure organic coconut milk (from the can), the bitterness was fortunately minimized, and I will use it for my almond flour, paleo waffles and pancakes, as well as lattes and smoothies.

Everyday Class versus Diamond Class - definite difference in vibrancy, color and smell

Thank you again, Matcha Shiba. As a daily matcha drinker, I am excited to have more sources of worthy organic matcha from which to choose.. 

Between a koicha and ushucha of the Diamond Class - 4 scoops to 1.5 oz of water