Dona Chai Ceremonial Grade Matcha First-Flush, Stone-Milled 1.1 oz Airtight Tin — Vibrant, Smooth

Dona First Flush Ceremonial Grade Matcha is a stone-milled, single-origin blend of first-harvest tea leaves from family farms in Shizuoka, Kagoshima, and Kyoto, packaged in a 1.1-ounce airtight tin for fresh hot or iced matcha.

Harvested during the first spring picking when leaves are youngest, this ceremonial-grade matcha emphasizes a balanced umami profile with toasty, nutty notes. Stone-milling produces a fine, vibrant green powder designed for traditional whisking but versatile enough for lattes, smoothies, and cold brews. The small-batch sourcing from family estates and careful post-harvest handling aim to preserve aroma, color, and flavor while the airtight tin keeps the powder stable between uses.

What makes this matcha ceremonial grade and different from culinary matcha?

Ceremonial grade identifies tea suitable for drinking straight, without sweeteners or heavy dairy, highlighting delicate flavor and aroma. Dona First Flush uses leaves harvested in May and processed with steaming and stone-grinding to retain amino acids and color. The result is a finer texture and cleaner taste compared with coarser culinary grades intended for cooking.

• First-harvest leaves gathered at optimal tenderness for flavor concentration.
• Traditional stone milling yields a smooth, dust-like powder for frothing.
• Gentle steaming and rapid drying limit oxidation to preserve freshness.
• Blend of Shizuoka, Kagoshima, and Kyoto estates creates layered aroma.

How should I prepare Dona matcha for the best flavor?

For a classic bowl, use about 2 grams (roughly 1 teaspoon) of matcha with 2.5 ounces of water at about 170°F and whisk until a thin froth forms. This temperature and ratio help produce a smooth mouthfeel and balanced taste without bitterness. The powder also adapts well to milk or plant-based alternatives and to cold preparations for iced lattes or smoothies.

• Traditional: 1 tsp (2 g) + 2.5 oz water at 170°F, whisk vigorously until frothy.
• Latte: 1–1.5 tsp whisked with a small amount of hot water, topped with steamed milk.
• Iced: dissolve 1–2 tsp in a little hot water, pour over ice, add cold milk or water.
• Smoothies: blend 1 tsp with fruit, milk, or yogurt for a vibrant boost.

How should I store this tin to keep matcha fresh?

Matcha is sensitive to light, heat, oxygen, and moisture; the airtight tin helps, but storage choices matter. Keep the tin in a cool, dark place and reseal immediately after each use to minimize exposure. For longer-term storage, refrigeration in an airtight container can extend freshness, but avoid frequent temperature changes.

• Keep the tin sealed and away from sunlight or heat sources.
• Store in a cool, dry pantry or in the fridge for longer preservation.
• Avoid moisture and strong odors that can be absorbed by the powder.
• Use within a few weeks of opening for peak flavor and color.

What flavor and sensory notes can I expect from this blend?

This first-flush matcha leans toward an umami-rich profile with gentle sweetness and toasted, nutty undertones. The stone-milled texture creates a silky, smooth mouthfeel and a vivid green color when properly whisked. Subtle vegetal and floral hints come through, reflecting the mineral-rich clay soils of the farms.

• Primary: savory umami with mild sweetness.
• Secondary: toasty, nutty accents from the firing process.
• Mouthfeel: fine, silky powder that froths evenly.
• Aroma: green, slightly floral, and herbaceous.

Who is this for: Dona First Flush Ceremonial Matcha suits tea purists who want a traditional, high-quality powder for whisked bowls, home baristas seeking a premium base for lattes and iced drinks, and anyone who values small-farm sourcing and stone-milled texture. It is appropriate for vegans and those avoiding gluten and added sugars, and for people who prefer a smooth, balanced matcha experience rather than a bold culinary blend.

Ingredients

Ceremonial Matcha