Shiro; Our Hero Matcha

We know and love matcha, the luscious green powder that has taken hold over us. But here at Hvala, we have something even more special — white matcha.

Matcha has captured the hearts and taste buds of tea enthusiasts worldwide. But, there's a unique matcha powder that stands out amongst its peers. 

Enter Shiro Matcha, an exclusive creation by Hvala. 

The development of this matcha powder was borne out of a simple question — What if we could introduce Japanese teas that are completely new to the world, and create new flavours and aromas that have never been derived from 𝘯𝘪𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘢?

What sets Shiro Matcha apart?

Unlike regular matcha, which undergoes steaming to deactivate the enzymes that cause oxidation, Shiro Matcha is crafted from organically grown tea leaves that are naturally sun-dried.

This process is more time-consuming and requires meticulous attention to weather patterns as the varying amounts of sunlight daily affects the rate of drying out the leaves. This careful preparation results in a distinct flavour profile and texture, setting Shiro Matcha apart from conventional matcha powders.

The Art of Sun Drying

Sun drying tea leaves is an ancient technique that demands patience and precision. The leaves are spread out under the sun, allowing them to dry slowly and naturally. 

This method preserves the delicate flavours and nutrients in the tea leaves, and results in a tencha (raw material for matcha powder) that retains the essence of white tea, offering a refreshing and aromatic experience.

Unique Floral Notes

When it comes to aroma, the flavour profile of Shiro Matcha is where it truly shines. 

Thanks to sun-drying the leaves, shiro matcha boasts a unique floral aroma that sets it apart from other matcha powders. 

Shiro Matcha's taste profile is both delicate and intricate, featuring subtle floral notes that linger on the palate. Especially when prepared as an iced matcha latte, Shiro Matcha delivers a refreshing and vibrant richness that tantalises the senses.

Going against the grain

Another distinctive feature that sets Shiro Matcha apart is its subtle grainy texture. While it is also traditionally stone milled, Shiro Matcha powder has a slightly larger micron size compared to matcha powder.  

This unique texture adds a fascinating dimension to the tea, enhancing its overall character. So, if you notice a grittier matcha latte, don’t be surprised — it reflects the natural, artisanal methods used in crafting Shiro Matcha.

Conclusion

Shiro Matcha is unique to Hvala, and possibly a world first - matcha made from white tea leaves instead of green tea leaves. 

When you sip on our Shiro matcha latte, you're not just drinking tea; you're indulging in an experience that celebrates innovation, honours tradition and upholds exceptional craftsmanship.