Matcha: The Revolutionary New Note in Perfumery
Matcha :
Matcha is a Japanese green tea powder made from young Camellia sinensis leaves that are grown in the shade and then finely ground. Produced according to strict rules selecting the buds and the first two to three leaves, steaming to stop oxidation, and stone grindingthe ceremonial quality matcha stands out for its vibrant green color, fine powdery texture, and high concentration of aromatic compounds and chlorophyll.
Olfactory and sensory characteristics :
In perfumery, the “matcha” facet is often described as vegetal, powdery, slightly umami, with herbaceous or seaweed-like nuances, and sometimes a creamy roundness when paired with gourmand notes such as vanilla or almond. Depending on the composition, it can lean toward:
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a dry, fresh green-tea character (like classic green tea);
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a powdery, creamy texture (matcha latte, gourmand);
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a slightly bitter or umami aspect, adding uniqueness and depth to the accords.
These qualities make matcha both a textural note (often referred to as a “mouthfeel” translated to the nose) and a versatile ingredient: it can convey green elegance or refined gourmand richness. (Summary based on product sheets and feedback from the perfume community.)
Use in perfumery :
Matcha is primarily used as a top note when fresh and airy, or as a heart note when treated in a gourmand/powdery accord. Some typical applications include:
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Citrus/green compositions: to bring a vegetal freshness that is more sophisticated than a simple “tea note.”
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Gourmand/creamy compositions: matcha combined with milk, vanilla, or almond creates a cozy, contemporary “matcha latte” sensation.
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Chypre/woody accords: the umami and herbaceous facets of matcha can contrast with resinous-woody notes for a modern, dry effect.
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Unisex/niche fragrances: matcha is prominent in contemporary niche perfumery, where the focus is on exploring unique olfactory textures.
Trend and popularity :
In recent seasons, the matcha note has gained visibility, appearing in numerous recent releases and in the “trends” selections of beauty magazines. Editors note that “tea” notes particularly matcha, with its gastronomic and textured dimension meet the demand for more refined, “food-chic,” and sensory fragrances. Trend studies and analyses also confirm a strong increase in interest for tea and matcha notes in both searches and purchases.
Exemples de parfums au Matcha :
Milk & Matcha - Obvious
Thé Matcha - Solinotes
Preservation and formulation :
In perfumery, matcha is generally recreated through accords (synthetic aromatic compounds combined with natural extracts) because the edible powder cannot be used as-is in a standard alcoholic concentration.
In formulation, perfumers work on stabilizing the green/powdery facet (balancing freshness with longevity) to prevent it from turning too bitter or too flat in the dry-down.
Today, matcha is both a trendy and reliable note: it captivates with its unique texture herbaceous, powdery, and sometimes umami and its versatility, ranging from fresh eau de toilette to creamy gourmand compositions, as well as drier, woodier accords. For L’Atelier Parfum, it represents both a commercial and creative opportunity.
