13 Tasting Notes
Horai is a light, delicious, refreshing matcha. As usucha, I found it to have the matcha-typical floral and grass notes, with a little twang of oranges. The aftertaste is long and sweet with hints of cherry.
Flavors: Cherry, Floral, Grass, Ocean Air, Orange, Seaweed
Preparation
I ordered Isuzu matcha from Marukyu Koyamaen along with Wako, Unkaku, and Yugen. Isuzu was the most vegetal and spinachy of the four matchas and had the most astringency, with only slight bitterness. I have prepared it as usucha many times, and it is always refreshing and delightful. Its astringency is like a subtle citrusy twang in the mouth. This edge to Isuzu’s flavor produces a lovely cleansing feeling. I will be purchasing it again.
Flavors: Bell Pepper, Cut Grass, Lemon, Spinach, Wood
Preparation
I ordered this Yugen matcha from Marukyu Koyamaen with some of their other principal matcha. I have tried lots of other matcha, but this one is special. The aroma of the dry powder has chocolate notes that Marukyu Koyamaen’s other matcha did not have. The usucha I’ve whipped up with this matcha has been creamy, rich, and not at all bitter or astringent. I like to prepare this matcha on the thicker side of usucha to fully enjoy the indulgent flavors it has to offer.
Flavors: Butter, Chocolate, Cream, Cucumber, Raspberry
