In recent years, matcha has taken the beverage world by storm, becoming the go-to drink for those health-conscious individuals looking for a new alternative to a traditional latte. With its rich history, countless wellness benefits, unique flavours and renewed boom in popularity, there is much to learn! In this blog post, we will go into all things matcha latte, looking at its origins, how it differs from green tea and the numerous benefits it offers. Keep reading to find out all. 

What is Matcha? 

Matcha powder is made from the powdered leaves of the Camellia Sinensis plant, a plant that also produces green tea. The concentrated powder is grown under bamboo covers for the last two weeks of its cultivation, a process which produces lots of chlorophyll and gives matcha its distinct green colour. 

How is Matcha Different From Green Tea? 

Although matcha and green tea are grown from the same plant, they are different in numerous ways. The difference between these two products happens during the growing process. Where matcha is covered in its final stages of growing, green tea is left uncovered. 

Another key difference is the part of the plant used. Matcha is made from the youngest and freshest part of the Camellia Sinensis plant and once grown, the plant leaves are steamed by way of preserving the rich green colour and all the wonderful nutrients. A specialist ‘tencha-ro’ machine then dries the leaves which are ground down to a fine powder, or as we know it, matcha powder. This means that if we have a matcha latte we are consuming the whole leaf instead of an infusion of its leaves as in green tea. 

A Brief History of Matcha 

As we have previously mentioned, matcha has a rich history, but where did it all begin? Although most commonly associated with Japan, matcha was originally discovered in China, but in the 1100s was brought over to Japan by a Buddhist monk. A tradition of “the way of tea” was established and the ritual of matcha became something much bigger than simply tea. This newly found Japanese tradition became an exercise of devotion in a flawed world. 

It was at this stage that the ritual of making matcha was founded. At this time, the tea was ground into a powder and whisked with a bamboo brush with boiling water. The name matcha comes from a combination of Japanese words: ‘Matsu’, meaning “to rub or to paint” and ‘cha’, meaning “tea”. 

What’s in a Matcha Latte? 

Although a matcha latte looks impressive, it is quite a simple drink. The key ingredient of a matcha latte is, of course, matcha powder! The other ingredients needed are hot water and hot milk. A tablespoon of hot water is used to make a paste, a way of breaking down the powder so that it creates a smooth drink. At this point, some may add in honey or a choice of flavouring, depending on personal preference. Finally, the concoction is topped up with a choice of hot milk, whether that be dairy or plant-based, to create a delicious matcha latte. 

What Does a Matcha Latte Taste Like? 

Matcha has a varied flavour, with a variety of notes. From mellow vegetal grassy flavours, natural sweetness from nutty notes, to a slight bitterness ending with a much more pleasant savoury note. The final taste is referred to as umami in Japanese culture, which as one of the core fifth tastes, which include sweet, sour, bitter and salty, and which gives matcha its delicious and irresistible taste. 

How Popular Are Matcha Lattes? 

The market for matcha lattes has seen incredible growth in the last few years, with it having a global predicted revenue of $5.5 billion by 2027 and an industry forecast of 8% annual growth in the next 9 years. This exponential growth shows how matcha lattes are becoming the go-to choice for people worldwide. 

The Benefits of Drinking Matcha Lattes 

1. High in Antioxidants 

One of the many benefits of matcha powder is its high levels of polyphenols, a plant compound that is a natural antioxidant. Polyphenols are known to protect the human body against diseases and also form a basis for a healthy and balanced diet. 

2. Supports Brain Health 

The combination of polyphenols, chlorophyll, caffeine and L-theanine within Matcha is also found to benefit brain function. The caffeine found in matcha claims to have positive effects on alertness, its action on the central nervous system heightens alertness.

3. Potential Stress-Relieving Effects 

Depending on the authenticity of the matcha powder used, the levels of L-theanine (an amino acid) vary. It has been claimed that those with higher levels of this compound increase the levels of a neurotransmitter found to relax the mind. 

4. Natural Energy Booster 

Matcha lattes give you all the energy benefits of coffee. However, thanks to the combination with L-theanine, you won’t be getting any of the caffeine jitters and shakes often associated with a traditional coffee latte. 

Organic Matcha Lattes with Sweet Revolution

At Sweet Revolution, we offer some of the highest-quality and best organic matcha on the market. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy answer to your superblend desires or want to make a matcha latte from scratch, we have just what you need. Our range of products includes a barista blend, already sweetened with coconut nectar and enhanced with vanilla and an instant matcha latte blend that just requires you to add water. 

Our easy-to-use products are perfect for making matcha lattes at home or on the go, as well as providing you with all the health benefits associated with matcha. All of our matcha is grown in orgnaic nutrient-rich soils, providing you with the very best quality. Oh and did we forget to mention? All of our blends are vegan, gluten-free, soya-free and nut-free.

Click here to get your hands on some of our delicious matcha.