Chaism Ceremonial Grade Matcha Green Tea Powder

This is actually perfect for beginners. The flavor profile sits on the sweeter, gentler side without any of those fishy or overly grassy notes that can turn newcomers off. It's forgiving if you're still figuring out your measurements or water temperature—though it can get bitter if you really overdo it. The powder dissolves easily and froths well even without expert whisking technique, and the container has clear instructions to get you started.

Many reviewers were pleasantly surprised to find this Chinese matcha rivals the quality of high-grade Japanese varieties, especially at this price point. It's stone-ground, first harvest, and has that vibrant green color and smooth umami flavor you'd expect from ceremonial grade. A few note it's slightly less bold than premium Japanese brands, but the consensus is that it delivers comparable quality with a balanced, approachable taste profile.

The dominant note is a smooth, balanced umami with earthy and slightly nutty undertones. Reviewers describe it as having delicate floral and grassy notes, with some picking up on an avocado-like creaminess and even a sweet ripe banana aroma when you first open the tin. The key thing people love is what it doesn't taste like—there's no harsh bitterness or astringency when prepared correctly. It's clean, smooth, and just sweet enough without being overpowering.

It's excellent for lattes. Nine reviewers specifically mention using it for matcha lattes, and they love how well it froths and foams when whisked or blended with milk. The texture is incredibly fine—finer than powdered sugar—so it dissolves smoothly without clumping. That balanced, not-too-strong flavor also plays nicely with milk without getting lost or turning bitter.

The tin contains 1.06 ounces (30 grams), which is admittedly small—this is one of the most common complaints. Several reviewers note the container looks partially empty when you open it, and the powder can stick to the lip causing some waste. That said, a little goes a long way since you typically use 1-2 grams per serving, so you're looking at roughly 15-30 servings depending on how strong you make it. Just know you're paying for quality over quantity here.

The sealed tin container does a good job protecting freshness—multiple reviewers mention the fresh smell and aroma when first opening. To keep it at its best, you'll want to seal it tightly after each use and store it away from light and heat. The vibrant green color and smooth taste are signs of freshness, and proper storage will help maintain those qualities throughout the container.