Ippodo’s Ummon-no-mukashi sits at the top of our ceremonial picks. It whisks into a thick, glossy foam and carries a deep, savory umami that most cheaper matchas only hint at. There is essentially no astringency, even when prepared as koicha. It is not cheap, and it can sell out, but a little goes a long way and the flavor is hard to match. If you are buying one matcha to understand the ceiling, this is it.
Best Overall
Ippodo Ummon-no-mukashi Matcha
If you want to taste why people obsess over matcha, start here. Ummon is rich enough to make koicha (thick matcha) yet still smooth as a latte base.
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- Grade Ceremonial (koicha-capable)
- Origin Uji, Japan
- Best for Straight usucha / koicha
Specifications
| Grade | Ceremonial (koicha-capable) |
|---|---|
| Origin | Uji, Japan |
| Best for | Straight usucha / koicha |
Pros and cons
What we like
- Deep umami with almost no bitterness
- Whisks to a thick, stable foam
- Vivid jade color
What we don't
- Premium price
- Sells out periodically
