Hello from ICHIZEN. If you are new to matcha tea, you may be wondering whether it is better to drink it plain or with milk.
The simple answer is: both are good ways to enjoy it. Plain matcha lets you understand the flavor of the powder itself, while milk makes the taste rounder and easier to bring into an everyday routine.
Plain matcha shows you the character of the tea
When matcha is whisked with water, its aroma, umami, and gentle bitterness come through clearly. If you are trying it for the first time, it may taste a little more intense than expected.
A helpful starting point is 1.5 to 2 g of matcha with about 60 to 80 ml of water at around 70 to 80°C. Water that is too hot can make the bitterness feel sharper, so let boiling water cool slightly before using it.
What kind of powder works well?
For plain matcha, look for a clean aroma, a smooth mouthfeel, and a fine, even powder. ICHIZEN matcha is made from Kyoto Uji tea selected and refined by Wakimoto Jokoen, then machine-milled into an ultra-fine, uniform powder.
When you add milk, the bitterness becomes rounder and the aroma opens in a gentler way. Some people enjoy it without sweetener; others prefer a small amount of sweetness for balance.
As a guide, mix about 2 g of matcha with a small amount of water first, then add around 150 ml of warm or cold milk. If it tastes too strong, add more milk. If it feels too light, use a little more matcha next time.
How should you choose matcha tea for your style?
It helps to decide how you want to drink it first. Do you want to taste the tea itself quietly, or are you looking for a comfortable latte-style drink?
For plain matcha: focus on aroma, umami, and smooth texture
For milk: look for a flavor that still has presence when diluted
For both: choose a fine, even powder that mixes easily
If you are unsure, try one powder both ways. Comparing them side by side is often the easiest way to understand your own preference. You can browse the current selection in our matcha collection.
If the flavor feels off, check these details
If your matcha tastes too bitter, powdery, or flat, the issue is not always the powder amount. Water temperature, mixing, and storage can all change the cup.
Matcha easily absorbs moisture, light, and surrounding odors. After opening, close it tightly, keep it in a cool, dark place, and enjoy it while the aroma is fresh.
If you notice clumps, sift the powder before adding water. For a more detailed method, you can refer to our matcha preparation guide.
Choose the cup that suits your moment
Plain matcha is a quiet way to discover the depth of the tea. Matcha with milk is a softer cup that can fit easily into your day.
You do not need to choose only one. Try a latte in the morning and a lighter plain matcha in the afternoon, and let your own rhythm guide you.
FAQ
Is it okay to drink matcha every day?
Matcha is a food beverage that can be enjoyed regularly. If you drink it daily, avoid excessive amounts and adjust the timing or serving size if you are sensitive to caffeine.
Can I use the same powder for matcha tea and matcha latte?
Yes, the same matcha powder can be used for both. For plain matcha, focus on aroma and smoothness. For lattes, choose a flavor that still has presence with milk.
Why does my matcha become clumpy?
Matcha is very fine and can clump when it absorbs moisture. Sifting the powder first and mixing it with a small amount of water helps reduce clumps.
How soon should I finish matcha after opening?
After opening, matcha’s aroma gradually changes. Keep it tightly sealed in a cool, dark place, check the product label, and enjoy it as soon as reasonably possible.
