Hello, and welcome to Matchagraphy. My name is Gerald Zhang-Schmidt, and for many years, tea has been more than a beverage to me; it has been a quiet passion and a constant companion. And of all teas, none has captivated me more than matcha.
I created this website out of a deep respect for matcha’s rich history and a growing concern for its present.
We are living in the middle of a global matcha mania. The vibrant green powder is everywhere, from lattes in local cafés to eye-catching desserts on social media. This popularity is exciting, but it has also created a sea of confusion.
Prices are soaring, supplies are limited, and much of what is sold as “matcha” has little connection to the centuries-old artisanal tradition from which it came.
I watched as online articles claimed to name the “best” matcha while featuring products with no history or clear origin. I saw the terms “ceremonial” and “culinary” used with little understanding of their true meaning within the Japanese tea ceremony, or Chadō.
The deeper story—the one about the dedicated producers in Uji, the art of the blend, and the quiet philosophy that infuses every bowl—was being lost in the noise.
Matchagraphy is my response.
This is not a site about trends or chasing the “best” of anything. It is a quiet, thoughtful space dedicated to exploring the profound world of matcha in all its depth.
My mission is to:
- Educate Deeply: To go beyond the surface and explore the history, cultivation, and cultural significance of true Japanese matcha.
- Profile the Producers: To introduce you to the legendary, multi-generational tea houses of Japan who are the true keepers of the craft.
- Provide Clarity: To demystify the complex world of grades, blends, and terroir so you can make informed, confident choices.
- Guide Your Practice: To help you understand which matcha is best suited for which use, whether it’s a sublime bowl of koicha or the perfect powder for a homemade latte.
This is a journey into the heart of a tradition, a study in the details that transform a simple powder into an experience of harmony, respect, and tranquility. Thank you for joining me.