Colour is one of the quickest clues to a matcha’s quality. Shade-grown leaves are rich in chlorophyll, which gives good matcha its vivid green. Lower quality or older matcha tends to look paler, yellower or duller. Here’s what to look for :Matcha Colour Explained: What Your Matcha Is Telling You
Deep, rich green: Dark and intense, this is typical of young, shade-grown leaves with plenty of chlorophyll. Expect a smooth, sweet, umami-rich flavour.
Vibrant green: Bright and lively, still clearly green. This is the shade most people picture when they think of fresh, high quality matcha.
Fresh yellow-green: Lighter and slightly olive. Still a pleasant colour and often good for lattes, though the flavour can be a little less sweet and a bit more grassy.
Muted yellow-green: Softer and duller, with the vibrancy fading. This can point to older leaves, less shading or powder that has been exposed to air and light.
Pale yellow or khaki: The faded end of the range. Matcha this colour is often lower grade or past its best, and usually tastes flat or bitter.
What affects matcha’s colour
Shading: More time under cover means more chlorophyll and a deeper green.
Leaf age: Young, tender leaves from the first harvest are greener than older, mature leaves.
Processing: Careful steaming and stone-milling help preserve colour.
Storage: Light, heat and air cause matcha to fade. Keep your tin sealed and stored somewhere cool and dry.