At AOI Matcha, Ceremonial Grade means:

First harvest only:

handpicked, youngest, most tender leaves

Shade grown:

to enhance sweetness and depth of flavor

Stone milled fresh to order:

preserving aroma, texture, and nutrients

Stone milling is a slow, artisanal process—just 30 ~ 50 grams per hour, enough for about one tin.

All our ceremonial grade matcha is milled to order, shipped from Japan in a refrigerated container, and stored in temperature-controlled facilities in California until it reaches you.

Ceremonial vs. Culinary: Know the Difference

Ceremonial grade:

Best enjoyed pure, whisked with hot or cold water, no milk or sweeteners.

Culinary grade:

Ideal for recipes and lattes. Its natural astringency complements milk and other ingredients, ensuring the matcha flavor shines through.

Thank you for being part of the AOI family. When you choose AOI, you’re getting genuine ceremonial grade matcha crafted with care and delivered fresh. We appreciate your trust and your taste for the real thing.