Matcha is a high-quality Japanese green tea, ground into a fine powder. Unlike traditional steeped teas, matcha is consumed whole, including the tea leaves, which offers more nutrients, antioxidants, and a unique taste experience.

At Maïdo Matcha, we offer several different matchas, with different grades and origins. Nevertheless, they are all Japanese:

• Matcha Daichi-San & Mei-San: Our highest quality matcha, from the first harvests, with a sweet and pronounced umami taste, ideal for traditional tea ceremonies. Daichi-san is a little stronger than Mei-san. If you are a beginner, we recommend Mei-san.

All our matchas are Japanese and have been hand-picked by us! Within the Maïdo Matcha team, we have lived several years in Japan and traveled throughout the country to find the best balance.

For more details, here is information on the origin of our matchas:

Maïdo Matcha's Mei-San Matcha:

• Tea Type: Yabukita
• Ingredients: 100% Green Tea, Matcha powder
• Grade: Ceremonial
• Cultivated and Harvested: Mie, Japan
• Additional Information: Suitable for Koicha, Usucha and Latte
• Canning/packaging and powdering location: Uji, Kyoto, Japan

Maïdo Matcha's Daichi-San Matcha:

• Tea Type: Okumidori / Saemidori / Asanoka
• Ingredients: 100% Green Tea, Matcha powder
• Grade: Ceremonial
• Cultivated and Harvested: Kagoshima, Japan
• Additional Information: Suitable for Koicha, Usucha and Latte
• Canning/packaging and powdering location: Uji, Kyoto, Japan
• Matcha Type: This is a "Blend" matcha, meaning it is a mixture of several tea leaves (but still 100% matcha), allowing for a consistent flavor year after year

Yes, matcha contains caffeine, about 35mg per 1g serving, which is less than a cup of coffee. However, thanks to the presence of L-theanine, caffeine is released gradually, providing stable energy without the side effects of coffee.

Our products are not organically certified, but they come from sustainable agriculture that respects the environment and natural cycles. We hope to be able to offer you certified organic products in our catalog in the future.

A quality matcha is recognized by:

• Its vibrant green color
• Its fine and silky texture
• Its fresh, vegetal aroma
• Its balanced taste, both sweet and umami, without excessive bitterness

And guess what? This applies to all our matchas! However, you should know that there are also Japanese matchas with a lot more bitterness that are of excellent quality. However, in Europe, we are not really used to drinking this type of matcha. But bitterness does not mean bad!

To preserve the freshness and quality of your matcha, store it in an airtight container, away from light, moisture, and strong odors. We provide a small plastic lid to place on the 60g tin before re-sealing it, to ensure a perfectly airtight closure. You can also store your matcha in the refrigerator if you live in a hot and humid environment — otherwise, it's not necessary.

Ideally, consume it within 4 to 6 weeks after opening. If the color changes slightly over the weeks, don't worry: this is normal. Matcha is a delicate product that simply requires a little attention.

After use, simply rinse your matcha whisk (chasen) under warm running water without using soap or detergent, which could alter the taste of your tea. Gently shake it to remove excess water, then let it air dry, ideally on a whisk holder or placed on a clean cloth with the prongs facing upwards. Ensure it is completely dry before storing it in a well-ventilated area to prevent mold and extend its lifespan.

Yes, it's completely normal for your matcha whisk (chasen) to shed a few tines when you first start using it.

Bamboo whisks are handmade, and it's common for a few bristles to come loose during the first few uses. This doesn't affect the whisk's performance or compromise the quality of your matcha. Over time, your whisk will stabilize.

To minimize bristle loss, make sure to briefly soak the whisk in hot water before each use, avoid scrubbing vigorously against the bottom of the bowl, and ensure proper drying after each use.

The freshness sachets (or desiccants) you find in some of our products are designed to absorb moisture. They are included in our matcha and other sensitive product packaging for several essential reasons:

1. They preserve the freshness and quality of matcha by absorbing any moisture that might seep into the packaging.
2. They prevent the clumping of matcha powder, which is very sensitive to moisture.
3. They extend the shelf life of our products by maintaining an optimal dry environment.

These sachets are completely safe for food use but are not edible. Please dispose of them after opening and keep out of reach of children. It is recommended to keep the freshness sachet with your matcha until it is fully used to maintain optimal quality.

"Okumidori" and "Yabukita" are cultivar (varietal) names used for tea production in Japan, including matcha. These varieties are distinguished by their botanical characteristics and flavor profiles:

• Yabukita (our Mei-san matcha): This is the most common cultivar in Japan, accounting for approximately 75% of national tea production.
• Okumidori (our Daichi-San Matcha): A rarer and premium cultivar, developed in the 1970s. It produces a smoother tea with deep umami, sweet notes, and a creamy texture. Compared to Yabukita, Okumidori generally offers a more complex and refined aromatic profile, making it a preferred choice for high-quality matchas.

The choice of cultivar significantly influences the organoleptic characteristics of the final matcha, much like the grape varietal for wine.

Yes, our matchas are ceremonial grade matchas. This designation indicates that they are of the highest quality and specifically produced to be prepared and enjoyed according to Japanese tradition.

Our ceremonial grade matchas are made from the tender young shoots of tea plants, meticulously selected, then shaded for weeks before harvest to increase their chlorophyll and L-theanine content. They are then slowly ground on stone mills to preserve their qualities.

These matchas are characterized by their silky texture, vibrant jade green color, subtle aromas, and balanced umami taste. They are perfect for pure enjoyment, prepared simply with hot water and a traditional whisk, exactly as in the Japanese tea ceremony.

We currently offer two matchas: Mei-san and Daichi-san. Both are exceptional "ceremonial" grade matchas. However, if you're just starting out, we recommend Mei-san, a matcha whose intensity is slightly lower than Daichi-san.

Once you're used to drinking matcha, you can then switch to "Daichi-san" matcha, which is a bit stronger and also a different type of matcha.

1. Sift 1 to 2 matcha spoons (approx. 2g) into your bowl.
2. Add 60-80ml of hot water (80°C, not boiling, this is important to preserve all the benefits and avoid a more pronounced bitterness! ☺️)
3. Whisk vigorously in a "M" shape like "Maïdo" or a "W" shape with the chasen until you obtain a fine and creamy foam! If you're feeling a bit lazy (and we understand!), no problem: you can use an electric whisk. We (almost) won't judge you for it!
4. Enjoy your Maïdo Matcha (and tell us what you think on our social media!)

The bamboo whisk (called chasen in Japanese) is an essential tool for preparing a smooth, lump-free matcha. Here's how to use it correctly:

1. First, soak the whisk in hot water for a few seconds to soften it and prevent the tines from breaking. Do not immerse it completely, just halfway, so that the tines are submerged.
2. Once your matcha or Hojicha is in your bowl, with water, you can proceed to the next step.
3. Hold the whisk between your thumb and fingers, perpendicular to the surface of the bowl.
4. Whisk vigorously in a "W" or "M" motion like "Maïdo" (not in a circle), staying close to the bottom of the bowl. The movement should be quick and light. Do not press too hard on the bottom of the bowl.
5. Continue for 15 to 30 seconds until a light foam forms on the surface.
6. After use, rinse your whisk thoroughly with hot water (without soap) and let it air dry, ideally on a whisk stand to maintain its shape.

To extend the life of your whisk, avoid leaving it soaking in water and never store it wet.

If you want to prepare a matcha latte, we recommend using our "Daichi-san" product. This matcha has a stronger taste, which will allow you to better appreciate the matcha flavor. If you're using our soft and creamy Matcha Mei-san, no problem: just add a little more matcha (and you can never have enough 🥹).

Steps:

1. Prepare a traditional matcha with 60ml of hot water, as described earlier in this FAQ.
2. Heat 150ml of your preferred milk (but you can also use cold milk!)
3. Pour the hot milk over the matcha, stirring gently
4. Optionally, add a little agave syrup or honey to your taste and there you have it: a creamy latte.

Be careful, milk can really mask the taste of matcha if you add too much. It's all about balancing the quantities according to your preferences!

Absolutely, your matcha is still usable even if it has clumps. Clumps are common with matcha because this fine powder is very sensitive to moisture and can naturally agglomerate during storage. This does not affect the quality or nutritional properties of the product in any way. To remove clumps, you can use a small fine sieve before preparation, or whisk more vigorously with your chasen (matcha whisk) when brewing.

To prevent this phenomenon in the future, make sure to store your matcha in an airtight container, in a cool place, away from moisture, ideally with the desiccant packet provided.

Note that our high-quality matchas are very finely ground, and the finer a tea is ground, the higher the chance of clumps.

After your order is confirmed, you will receive an email with a tracking number. You can also track the status of your order by logging into your account on our website.

• Metropolitan France: 3 to 4 business days
• Europe: 4 to 10 business days
• International: 8-20 business days

These times are indicative and start from the shipping confirmation.

We do not deliver to all countries. This may vary, and the list of served destinations is indicated at the time of confirming your order. However, we do deliver to: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.

Shipping costs and delivery times vary by destination. They are calculated automatically when you place your order. Please note that the minimum order of €49 for free delivery only applies to deliveries in mainland France, Andorra, and Monaco. The minimum order for free delivery in Belgium is €69.

Shipping costs are free in metropolitan France, Monaco, and Andorra for all orders over €49. They are also free for orders over €69 in Belgium. Special offers may also be available during special events.

Please note that delivery costs are a very significant expense for an e-commerce site like ours. As you can imagine, nothing is truly "free," and when you exceed the minimum order, it's actually Maïdo Matcha and our site that cover these costs. This explains our minimum order of 49 euros.

We understand your concern about your package being marked as delivered but not received. Here's what to do:

1. First, check with household members, neighbors, or a doorman to see if anyone received the package in your absence.
2. Check secure locations around your home where the delivery person might have left the package (mailbox, garden shed, behind a plant pot, etc.).
3. If you still can't find your order, contact us immediately at contact@maidomatcha.com

Modifications are only possible if your order has not yet been prepared. Contact us immediately by email at contact@maidomatcha.com, providing your order number, full name, and last name.

If your package has been returned to our warehouse, don't worry. This situation can occur for several reasons: incomplete address, absence during delivery attempts, or an issue with the carrier.

Here's the procedure to follow:

1. Contact us promptly by email at contact@maidomatcha.com, providing your order number.
2. Specify whether you'd like a new shipment to the same address (with any additional details) or to a different address, or if you prefer a refund.
3. Our team will process your request upon receipt of your message and inform you of the next steps.

For metropolitan France, Andorra, and Monaco:

• Standard delivery: Free for purchases of €49 or more (otherwise €4.99)
• Express delivery (24-48h): €9.99

For Belgium:

• Standard delivery: Free for purchases of €69 or more (otherwise €8.99).

For Europe:

• Austria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden: €8.99 (free for purchases of €99 or more)
• Switzerland: €8.99

For other international destinations, fees are calculated automatically during your order based on weight and destination. However, we cannot deliver worldwide at this time. All our packages are shipped with a tracking number.

Delivery times generally vary from 7 to 12 business days for Europe, depending on the destination and the chosen shipping method.

On each product page, you can subscribe to a monthly or quarterly delivery of your matcha. You'll never run out again!

Yes, you get an additional 5% discount if you subscribe to a Maïdo Matcha subscription to receive your matcha regularly.

Yes, absolutely! It's entirely possible, and everything can be done automatically from the "My account" page in the "My subscriptions" section.

Shipping costs are free with a subscription in mainland France, Monaco and Andorra for any order over €49. They are also free for orders over €69 in Belgium.

Otherwise, delivery costs will be automatically charged each time with the subscription at the standard rate indicated on our site.

You can choose between monthly or quarterly deliveries. It's up to you! Generally, a 30g tin provides enough matcha for a full month.

No, there is no commitment with Maïdo Matcha. You can subscribe, pause, cancel, or restart your subscription whenever you want. There is, of course, no charge for any of these actions. Everything takes place on your "My Account" page.

Yes, you can add products to your subscription from the "My Subscriptions" section (on the My Account page). Simply click on the "Modify" button, then remove or add products to your subscription.

You can cancel or postpone payment in "My Subscriptions", on our My Account page. Each scheduled delivery will display an "Cancel payment" button next to it, which you can use to cancel the direct debit. You can postpone the payment by clicking on the "Postpone" button next to the delivery date.

We accept payments by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX), PayPal, Shop Pay, Apple Pay and Google Pay. All your transactions are secure.

Absolutely. Our site uses an SSL protocol to encrypt all your personal and banking data. We never store your credit card information on our servers.

No, we are sorry but we do not offer payment in installments at the moment.

In accordance with French law, you have a 14-day cooling-off period from the date of receipt of your order. Products must be returned in their original, unopened, and undamaged packaging.

Please note that for teas and products with an expiry date, these products must still be sealed.

Once your returned order is received, our teams will proceed with a package inspection.

Important: Gift cards are non-refundable.

To return a product, please contact our customer service for more information at: contact@maidomatcha.com.

We will respond within 48 business hours.

Refunds are processed within a maximum of 14 days after receipt and verification of the returned items. The refund will be made using the same payment method as used for the purchase.

Contact us within 48 hours of receipt with photos of the product and packaging. We will promptly arrange an exchange or a refund, as per your preference.

If you wish to return an item simply because you have changed your mind or are not satisfied with it, the return shipping costs will be at your expense.

Please note that if a consumable product has been opened, such as our matcha teas for example, a refund cannot be issued.

However, at Maïdo Matcha, we cover return shipping costs in the following cases:

• If you have received a damaged product
• If we sent you an incorrect item
• If the product has a manufacturing defect
• If the item does not match its description on our website

In these situations, please contact us by email with photos of the issue. Our priority is your satisfaction, and we want to make the return process as simple as possible when a problem arises.

You can create an account by clicking on "My account" at the top of the page, then following the instructions. You can also create an account directly during your first order.

Having an account allows you to:

• Track and manage your orders
• Save your addresses for faster purchases
• Access our loyalty program, which will be available soon
• Receive personalized offers (this option can also be disabled if you wish)

We do not currently have a loyalty program in place. However, we are working on one to thank you! We know how important your loyalty is to us and our development, so we owe it to you! 💚

You can contact us:

• By email: contact@maidomatcha.com
• Via the contact form on our website

Absolutely! Our team is available to guide you in choosing your products or to answer your questions about preparing and tasting matcha. You can send us a private message on Instagram; we'll get back to you as soon as possible (because good matcha can't wait!).

Unfortunately, we currently only sell our Maïdo Matcha products online, on our website. We apologize for this, but we hope to offer our exceptional matcha elsewhere in the future!

We are open to partnerships with resellers who share our values. For more information, please contact us at contact@maidomatcha.com.