Eiju

Marukyu Koyamaen never fails to surprise me, and Eiju comes as the biggest surprise yet. As an usucha, it has rich umami notes, almost vegetal but not with its familiar and unpleasant bitterness. I was honestly surprised that a matcha of this grade can have such a robust profile, a stark difference from the soft and mellow unkaku. There are subtle sweet notes that became more noticeable in the aftertaste. It has no astringency. As a latte, the umami notes still shine through. It can be made bolder when used with a lighter milk. Its natural sweetness complimented the milk beautifully. I like it more as a latte. I think this matcha is more suited for the bold umami lovers sans the bitterness.