Frequently Asked Questions
What is Matcha Senmon?
Matcha Senmon is a New Zealand-based matcha store specialising in authentic Japanese matcha and tea products. We source matcha from established Japanese tea producers and offer a range of matcha from different regions, producers and flavour profiles.
Alongside our own Senny’s Matcha, we also stock selected Japanese brands including Marukyu Koyamaen, Yamasa Koyamaen and other carefully chosen products.
Where does your matcha come from?
All our matcha is sourced from Japan, from different tea-growing regions and producers depending on the product. Each product listing includes its specific origin and details where available.
We believe the region, cultivar, harvest and producer all play an important role in the flavour and character of matcha.
Do you sell Senny’s Matcha as well as other brands?
Yes. Senny’s Matcha is our own matcha, sourced from Yame, Fukuoka, while Matcha Senmon also stocks matcha from other established Japanese producers, including Marukyu Koyamaen, and Yamamasa Koyamaen.
This allows us to offer a range of matcha at different price points and with different flavour profiles.
Is all your matcha from Japan?
Yes. We specialise in Japanese matcha, and our products are sourced from Japan.
What is the difference between the matchas you sell?
Matcha can vary significantly depending on its region, cultivar, harvest, farming methods, processing and producer.
Some matchas may be sweeter and more delicate, while others can have stronger umami, nuttiness or a more robust flavour. We provide product-specific information to help you find a matcha that suits your taste.
What does ceremonial grade mean?
Ceremonial grade refers to matcha that is intended for drinking rather than culinary use and meets a quality standard suitable for preparing matcha as tea, including in the traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Most of the matcha we stock is ceremonial grade. However, we believe quality isn't just about the label. We carefully select matcha that we think tastes great in everyday drinks, particularly matcha lattes. Our selection focuses on matchas that are smooth and well-balanced, with enough flavour and umami to hold up against milk without becoming overly bitter or having their flavour completely masked.
We also aim to offer matcha at a range of price points, so you can enjoy a great matcha latte without having to use an expensive tea that is better suited to drinking straight.
What is first-harvest matcha?
First-harvest matcha, known as ichibancha, is made from the first harvest of the tea season, when the plants produce their young spring leaves. These leaves are prized for their vibrant colour, natural sweetness, fresh aroma and rich umami.
At Matcha Senmon, all of our matcha is first harvest. In Japan, first-harvest tea is highly valued for drinking, while later harvests are generally considered lower quality and are more commonly used for other purposes. We believe good matcha starts with good tea leaves, which is why we only stock first-harvest matcha.
What are cultivars?
A cultivar is a specific variety of the tea plant (Camellia sinensis). Different cultivars can produce noticeably different flavours, aromas, colours and levels of umami.
Common Japanese matcha cultivars include Samidori, Saemidori, and Okumidori among others.
Why does matcha taste different between brands?
Even when two matchas are both labelled as ceremonial grade, they can taste completely different. Factors such as where the tea is grown, the cultivar, harvest timing, shading, processing and producer all influence the final cup.
This is why we love offering different Japanese matchas so you can discover what you enjoy.
How should I store matcha?
Matcha is sensitive to heat, light, air and moisture. Keep it sealed tightly and store it somewhere cool and dark.
Once opened, refrigeration can help preserve freshness. If refrigerated, allow the matcha to return to room temperature before opening to avoid condensation getting into the powder.
How much matcha should I use?
A typical serving is around 2–2.5g, although you can adjust this depending on how strong you prefer your matcha.
Can I use matcha for lattes and baking?
Absolutely. While high-quality matcha can be enjoyed traditionally with water, matcha can also be used for lattes, iced drinks, desserts and baking.
For drinking, we recommend choosing a matcha whose flavour profile you enjoy on its own. For baking and recipes, a more robust matcha can work particularly well.
Do you offer wholesale?
Yes. We offer wholesale matcha for cafés, restaurants, bakeries and other businesses. Our wholesale range includes selected matchas suitable for commercial use.
Visit our Wholesale page to learn more or contact us about your requirements.
Do you ship across New Zealand?
Yes! We ship New Zealand-wide and to Australia. You can find our current shipping rates and delivery information on our Shipping page.
How can I choose the right matcha?
If you're not sure where to start, have a look at the tasting notes and product descriptions on each matcha. You can also contact us and tell us what flavours you enjoy, your budget and how you plan to use the matcha. We're happy to recommend one.
Do you sell matcha accessories?
Yes! We stock a selection of Japanese matcha and tea accessories to help you prepare matcha at home. We try to keep our accessories made in Japan wherever possible, including traditional tools such as chasen (bamboo matcha whisks), chashaku scoops and other tea utensils.
We believe that if you're investing in good Japanese matcha, it makes sense to pair it with quality tools made for preparing it properly.
I have another question. How can I contact you?
We'd love to hear from you. If you have a question about our matcha, products, wholesale or anything else, head to our Contact page and get in touch.