In this Matcha Monday (ep. 56), I’m reviewing Hatoya’s Kaoru Premium Matcha and making a cozy latte while I share 10 facts about me—because it’s a new year and I felt like starting things off a little more personal (and a little whimsical). I walk you through the matcha details—this one’s from Uji Shirakawa in Kyoto Prefecture, grown in a mix of mountain soil and sand, and it’s the Samidori variety. It’s definitely a luxury tin at $42 for 20g, so I’m treating it like a “special occasion” matcha. Flavor-wise, Kaoru is not subtle. I get bold, intense umami with earthy/mushroom vibes, a creamy body, a slightly nutty finish, and just a mild bitterness that keeps it grounded. If you’re an umami-lover like me and you want that intense, earthy punch, this is kind of a dream. I also share my go-to latte recipe in the video (3g matcha, 30ml water at 170°F, 80ml oat milk, no sweetener) so you can recreate the exact cup I’m sipping while I chat. (It was gifted, but all opinions are my own.)