⏱ 1 min read
The Short Version
Kanbayashi Shunsho’s Soumei no Mukashi matcha defies expectations with its umami-rich, bitterness-free profile, offering a smooth, creamy balance that feels indulgent yet refined.
Matcha lovers, this one’s a revelation. Kanbayashi Shunsho’s Soumei no Mukashi isn’t just another green powder—it’s a masterclass in restraint, where umami and mellow vegetal notes dominate without a trace of bitterness. Brewed as usucha, it leans into earthy depth, while the latte version balances sweetness and creaminess in a way that feels almost indulgent. The ratio—4g powder to 100ml water and 100ml oat milk—offers a precise balance that enhances rather than masks the tea’s natural character.
It leads with umami and mellow vegetal notes, smooth, very creamy mouthfeel with some sweetness—no bitterness, no astringency.
Umami and Vegetal Notes Take Center Stage
This matcha’s profile is a quiet rebellion against the sharp, vegetal bitterness that often defines the category. Instead, it offers a layered complexity: think steamed vegetables, umami-rich broths, and a subtle sweetness that lingers. The vegetal notes are most pronounced in the usucha, where the absence of milk lets them shine without competing. It’s a rare breed of matcha that feels both grounded and refined, avoiding the astringency that can make others feel harsh.
Smooth, Creamy, and Balanced
What sets Soumei no Mukashi apart is its mouthfeel—a smooth, very creamy texture that feels almost velvety. The sweetness isn’t overwhelming, but it’s present enough to offset the umami, creating a harmony that’s hard to ignore. Unlike many matchas that lean into bitterness as a signature trait, this one opts for subtlety, delivering a medium body that feels weighty without being heavy. Its approach to bitterness and astringency aligns with modern health-conscious preferences, prioritizing smoothness over sharpness for a more accessible, soothing experience.
It leads with umami and mellow vegetal notes, smooth, very creamy mouthfeel with some sweetness—no bitterness, no astringency.
How does a matcha like this redefine what we expect from green tea?
Questions & Answers
How does Soumei no Mukashi differ from traditional matcha?
Soumei no Mukashi stands out with its umami and mellow vegetal notes, avoiding bitterness and astringency. Unlike traditional matcha, it offers a smooth, creamy texture and subtle sweetness, making it feel grounded yet refined.
What makes the mouthfeel of Soumei no Mukashi unique?
The mouthfeel of Soumei no Mukashi is smooth and very creamy, almost velvety. This texture enhances its balanced profile, offering a weighty yet light experience that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.
Why is the ratio of Soumei no Mukashi important for its flavor?
The 4g to 100ml water and 100ml oat milk ratio ensures a precise balance, allowing the tea’s natural character to shine. This ratio enhances the umami and vegetal notes without overpowering them, creating a harmonious drink.
Can Soumei no Mukashi be enjoyed in both usucha and latte forms?
Yes, Soumei no Mukashi works in both usucha and latte forms. The usucha highlights earthy depth, while the latte balances sweetness and creaminess, offering versatility that caters to different preferences.
Originally reported by Reddit Matcha.
