While matcha, or green tea, is a common flavour in many modern desserts and drinks, most of the commercial matcha available actually taste worlds apart from the true, artisanal matchas of Japan. Long steeped in rituals and traditions, these Japanese teas can be rich, nutty and overflowing with umami. Lucky for us in Malaysia, we have Syun Hattori and Izzat Iskandar, who are trying to educate and awaken us to these better, bolder matchas. We speak to them about their business—Niko Neko Matcha, and learn all about the identity and tradition behind this tea.

<p>While matcha, or green tea, is a common flavour in many modern desserts and drinks, most of the commercial matcha available actually taste worlds apart from the true, artisanal matchas of Japan. Long steeped in rituals and traditions, these Japanese teas can be rich, nutty and overflowing with umami. Lucky for us in Malaysia, we have Syun Hattori and Izzat Iskandar, who are trying to educate and awaken us to these better, bolder matchas. We speak to them about their business&mdash;Niko Neko Matcha, and learn all about the identity and tradition behind this tea.</p>

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