Let’s start by saying this… the Yomo n Kaori is not a basic matcha. It’s a step above basic. But that’s meant to imply that it’s only a slight step up. No, this is a fabulous, low-cost, high-quality Kyoto matcha.
Yomo no Kaori is clearly a Ceremonial Grade Matcha and it stands boldly and proudly with other matcha powders of great quality. It is not nearly as complex or unique as some of its peers, but that doesn’t make it less appealing or interesting.
The dry powder has that beautiful characteristic Kyoto scent of potato sticks umami. (This my favorite way to describe my favorite matcha scent and flavor.)
When the water hits the powder, the Yomo no Kaori doesn’t express itself as much as I would hope or expect, but a hint of clean forest air and slight buttery-ness peek through at times. When whisked as usucha, it foams up incredibly well and thick. At this point, the scent all but disappears, but the flavor steps in, both rich and balanced. Again, this isn’t necessarily a complex tasting matcha, but it is rather succinct and nearly complete.
I’m a big fan of the Samidori matcha from the same producer, Yamamasa Koyamaen. However, this Yomo no Kaori while less unique it flavor, might be a bit more well-rounded and balanced than the Samidori. This matcha does not taste thin in any meaningful category, nor is any important flavor noticeably absent or offensive. There exists a slight bitterness but it is well-balanced by the creamy sweetness.
My guess is that this matcha may be a bit fragile and temperamental depending on preparation. If it cools off too much or is not whisked enough, the flavors likely fall flat and tinny on the tongue. But so far I’ve enjoyed it at 85C and it’s been nearly perfect, presenting with a thick film of sorts that is more rare for such a low-prices usucha. In fact, for a thin tea, it’s physically thicker and more viscous than I would expect, but it wears that thickness as a heavy blanket on the tongue.
Again, all of this is a positive review!None of the thickness or “film” description is meant to be a negative. The heaviness of this matcha is immensely satisfying, especially for a cheaper thin tea.
Finally, the aftertaste made a nice impression as well. While the aftertaste does not linger long, a slight glimpse uni and nori does glimmer faintly a couple times in the first few minutes after drinking.
Especially for the price, I recommend it. But even more so, for the taste I recommend it. I would guess that at a higher temp of 90C it would still do very well, even as koicha. And if you’ve had great plain matcha tea before, but aren’t quite ready to spend much on your habit yet, this is well worth the whisking.
Yomo no Kaori is available for purchase online from Sazen Tea: https://www.sazentea.com/en/products/p824-matcha-yomo-no-kaori.html