About us

The Journey of Froth Haus Matcha

At Froth Haus, our matcha is cultivated by multi-generational farms in Uji, Kyoto, where centuries of tradition meet mindful care. The process is deliberate and meticulous, ensuring every sip captures the essence of true Japanese matcha:

1. Shade-Grown Cultivation
   About three weeks before harvest, the tea plants are carefully shaded. This reduces sunlight, which increases chlorophyll and amino acids like L-theanine. The result is a leaf with a vivid green color, smooth texture, and a naturally sweet, umami-rich flavor.

2. First Flush Harvest
   Only the youngest, most tender leaves of the season are hand-picked in early spring. Known as the “first flush,” these leaves carry unmatched freshness, softness, and nutritional richness—perfect for the finest matcha.

3. Steaming & Drying
   To preserve freshness and prevent oxidation, the freshly picked leaves are lightly steamed, dried, and stripped of veins and stems. This creates a pure leaf base called tencha.

4. Stone Grinding
   The tencha leaves are then ground slowly with traditional stone mills. Each rotation takes time—an hour can yield only 30–40 grams of powder. This slow method prevents heat from altering the delicate flavor, resulting in the silky, vibrant powder we know as matcha.

The Myth of “Ceremonial Grade”

In the West, you’ll often see matcha labeled as “ceremonial grade.” While this term suggests premium quality, in Japan there is no official grading system that defines it. Instead, it has become a marketing label.

So, what does it really mean?

• Typically, ceremonial matcha refers to first-harvest, shade-grown leaves, ground into a fine powder that’s smooth, bright green, and rich in umami.

• Because the term isn’t regulated, quality can vary widely between brands. Some powders called “ceremonial” may still be bitter, dull, or low quality.

At Froth Haus, we go beyond labels. Rather than leaning on “ceremonial grade” as a buzzword, we prioritize authenticity—sourcing only from first-harvest leaves that embody the color, aroma, and taste of true Japanese matcha.

Why It Matters

Every sip of Froth Haus matcha reflects centuries of craft. From careful shading to stone grinding, we honor the traditions passed down through generations. By focusing on transparency and authenticity, we make sure your matcha isn’t just labeled premium—it truly is.