Kanbayashi Shunsho – Mozo Mukashi Matcha
So I finally got to try Kanbayashi Shunsho’s Mozo Mukashi Matcha — not from a fancy tin, but from a humble little trial-size box that someone bought for me. This matcha comes from one of Kyoto’s most respected tea houses, with over 450 years of tea-making tradition behind it, so I was definitely curious to see what the hype was about. (Thank you, R, for buying me this matcha!)
Upon opening the tin, the powder had a beautiful, deep green hue and a soft, earthy aroma. I whisked it up and took my first sip… and the first thing that came to mind? Sweet potatoes. I don’t know if it’s just me, but there was this subtle, warm sweetness — not quite grassy, not quite nutty — that reminded me of roasted Japanese sweet potatoes. It wasn’t unpleasant at all; just super unexpected. The texture was smooth and easy to whisk, though the overall flavor was a little more mellow than I expected for a ceremonial matcha. Not too bitter, lightly umami, and very drinkable.
When I opened the packet, the powder had a rich green color and a slightly toasty, earthy aroma. I whisked it up and took a sip… and to my surprise, it had this oddly comforting taste that reminded me of sweet potatoes. Yup — sweet potatoes. There was a mild, natural sweetness and a warm, starchy undertone that caught me off guard in the best way. Maybe it’s just my taste buds, but that flavor note definitely stood out!
The texture was smooth and easy to whisk, though the overall flavor was a little more mellow than I expected for a ceremonial matcha. Not too bitter, lightly umami, and very drinkable.
All in all, I’d rate it a 7/10. It’s unique and enjoyable, especially if you’re into earthier, sweeter profiles — but maybe not something I’d reach for every day. Still, it was a fun little trial that made me appreciate how every matcha has its own personality.