Out of all the matcha I’ve tried, Seikan-no-Shiro from Nakamura Tokichi remains my favorite.
It’s the kind of matcha where everything feels in balance: umami, sweetness, and just a hint of bitterness, all in perfect harmony for a good price.
The aroma is gentle yet refined: fresh green notes with a soft, savory undertone typical of quality Uji leaves. When whisked, it forms a smooth, velvety foam; not too thick, but just right, leaving a creamy feel on the tongue.
Flavor-wise, this matcha is elegant and composed. It’s sweet and savory with no sharp grassy edges or lingering bitterness. The texture is silky, and the finish fades cleanly with a faint sweetness that feels almost milky.
It also performs beautifully in different forms, both as usucha (thin tea) and as a latte. With oat or soymilk, the umami becomes more pronounced; with almond milk, it feels lighter and slightly fresher.
It’s not the cheapest matcha out there, but every gram feels worth it.