What is Matcha? - A Beginner’s Guide

Matcha is not just green tea in powder form.
It is a ritual, a moment of pause, and a centuries-old tradition that invites calm into everyday life.

If you’re new to matcha, this guide will help you understand what it really is, why it’s different from regular tea, and why so many people around the world are replacing coffee with this vibrant green drink.

So… what exactly is matcha?

Matcha is a finely ground powder made from high-quality green tea leaves grown in Japan.

Unlike regular tea, where you steep leaves and throw them away, matcha is consumed whole.
That means you drink the entire leaf and receive all of its nutrients, antioxidants, and natural energy.

This is what makes matcha more than a beverage.
It becomes a form of nourishment.

Where does matcha come from?

Matcha as we know it today developed in Japan over 800 years ago and became deeply connected to Zen culture and tea ceremonies.

Monks discovered that matcha helped improve meditation by:

  • Enhancing focus

  • Providing calm energy

  • Keeping the body alert without restlessness

Today, matcha continues that same mission, just in modern life.

Why is matcha bright green?

Before harvest, matcha plants are shaded from sunlight.

This natural process increases chlorophyll and amino acids in the leaves.
The result:

  • A vibrant green color

  • A smoother taste

  • A naturally sweet finish

  • Rich nutritional content

This is why real matcha should never look dull or brown.

Does matcha have caffeine?

Yes, but it works differently than coffee.

Matcha provides:

  • Sustainable energy

  • Calm alertness

  • No crash

  • No jitters

The reason lies in L-theanine, a natural amino acid that slows how caffeine enters your bloodstream, creating a focused but peaceful energy curve.

What does matcha taste like?

Good matcha should taste:

  • Smooth

  • Slightly sweet

  • Creamy

  • Rich in umami

It should never taste bitter, dry, or harsh. Flavor tells you everything about quality.

How do people drink matcha?

Matcha can be enjoyed:

  • Traditionally (just whisked with hot water)

  • As a latte

  • Iced

  • In smoothies

  • In desserts

But at its core, matcha is about simplicity and intention.

Why are people switching from coffee to matcha?

Because matcha:

  • Feels gentler on the body

  • Provides longer-lasting energy

  • Encourages mindfulness

  • Benefits skin and digestion

  • Reduces anxious energy

It becomes not just a drink, but a daily reset button.

How should beginners start?

Start with quality.

Ceremonial-grade matcha ensures:

  • Better taste

  • Better experience

  • Better energy

  • Better ritual

Your matcha should never fight you. It should support you.

Your ritual begins here

Matcha is not about perfection. It’s about presence.

San.Té Ritual Matcha
Discover ceremonial matcha crafted for your daily calm.