This is the fourth entry in our “Tea Series.” At the JFEX Winter 2025 exhibition, we had an opportunity to chat briefly with the CEO of Artem, Inc, a purveyor of fine matcha. I asked for two samples, at opposite ends of the price spectrum in order to conduct a blind tasting.
Artem is a relatively new company based in Tokyo. They market something called a Matcha Latte Base, which I did not taste, and powdered matcha. I asked for two samples and tasted the matcha, both of which were sealed in packets, offsite. A third party prepared both samples. The tea was properly whisked in a chawan.
Some Facts Concerning the Samples
Tea # 1 (labeled “HM”): This is a moderately priced “Culinary” matcha. The source within Japan is not specified. Sensory Evaluation: HM was served to me first. After tasting TJ, I correctly identified HM as Culinary. The aroma was, to be poetic, that of late spring. On the palate there was a degree of noticeable bitterness and astringency. HM is pictured here.
Tea # 2 (labeled “TJ”): This is Artem’s top-of-the-line “Ceremonial” matcha. The source within Japan is not specified. Sensory Evaluation: The color is slightly lighter, and the aroma is that of early spring. There are a lower level of bitterness and less astringency in this.
Both were highly enjoyable.
Drinking Japan 